Psychosocial Factors Associated with Recent Casual Sex among Urban College Students

Abstract

Casual sex is one sexual health behavior reported by college students. The present study examined the extent of past 30-day casual sex behavior and risk and protective factors for casual sex among college students. Students were requested to complete a survey in classrooms. Logistic regression analyses were employed to examine the research questions. Results indicated that 39.2% of students engaged in casual sex in the past 30 days. Univariate analyses revealed grade level, risky behaviors, emotional connectedness, and individual stressors were significantly associated with past 30-day casual sex. Final logistic regression modeling found having sex while drunk and reporting depression as an individual stressor were significantly associated with casual sex among college students. Supporting students engaging in casual sex with alcohol education and mental health resources may be needed on college campuses.

Keywords:

• Casual sex
• college student
• depression
• alcohol use

Disclosure statement

We have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.