Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Fall 10-11-2017

Journal / Book Title

American Journal of Sexuality Education

Abstract

First sex marks a significant transition for most adolescents, yet teens often report that it was unplanned. Seventy-four college students participated in exploratory focus groups about their first sex. Although initially asked whether their first sex was spontaneous or planned, many participants revealed evidence of forethought or anticipation, signifying a third option, anticipation. This study suggests that the development and timing of sexual health messages should build on the apparent, albeit often unacknowledged, planning and thought that accompany the transition to first sex. Specifically, during the time immediately preceding first sex, young people might be particularly open to such messages.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1080/15546128.2017.1359804

Published Citation

Lieberman, Lisa D., Eva S. Goldfarb, Samantha Kwiatkowski, and Paul Santos. "Does first sex really “just happen?” A retrospective exploratory study of sexual debut among American adolescents." American Journal of Sexuality Education 12, no. 3 (2017): 237-256.

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