Date of Award:

5-2013

Document Type:

Dissertation

Degree Name:

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department:

Psychology

Committee Chair(s)

Renee V. Galliher

Committee

Renee V. Galliher

Committee

Susan Crowley

Committee

Scott Bates

Committee

M. Scott DeBerard

Committee

Julie Gast

Abstract

Although most people will have at least one sexual relationship throughout the course of their life, many of us have not developed the skills we need to create the sexual experiences that we really want. This is influenced by (among other things) our sexual knowledge, our attitudes and values about sex, our ability to communicate clearly and effectively with our partner(s), and our access to sexual and reproductive health services and products. Accurate knowledge, positive attitudes, and self-efficacy in communication and resource access are all contributing factors to what is known as healthy sexuality.

The present study examined these areas before and after a four-session group that was designed to increase aspects of healthy sexuality among young adults. Participants reflected on their sexuality education histories (including family, peer, and school influences) and compared those experiences with their experiences in the designed group. Measurements of knowledge accuracy, attitudes and values, and various behaviors indicated a wide variety of experiences prior to the group, and significant improvement in many areas following participation. It is hoped that the psychoeducational group will continue to be offered to young adults on college campuses and that it may be modified for use in other settings such as church, community, or after-school groups.

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7b260fe2a47d0fc978d6419da1559abf

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