Impact of Recreational Sex on Sexual Satisfaction and Leisure Satisfaction

Abstract

Background : Recreational sexual activities, or sexual behaviors purely for enjoyment, are occurring among college students. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine whether recreational sexual behaviors impact sexual satisfaction and leisure satisfaction. Methods: Data were collected from a sample of undergraduate students at a Southeastern university using a self-report questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive procedures, principal components factor analysis, and multiple regression. Results: The study identified a set of recreational sex variables that accounted for a statistically significant amount of variation in both sexual satisfaction (men and women) and leisure satisfaction (men) (p < .05). Conclusions: Understanding behaviors, such as recreational sex, may be of value in developing effective intervention programming aimed at reducing sexual risk-taking and promoting consistent use of condoms on college campuses. Findings are of value to college health professionals, sexuality educators, and of interest to the general public.