The Effects of an Interview on Attitudes and Behavior

With the acceptance of the Kinsey surveys (Kinsey, 1948, 1953) and the more recent study by Masters and Johnson (1966) and others, the opportunities for exploring the many dimensions of human sexuality have been greatly expanded. Progress has been made in the sophistication of research designs but sample populations continue to be difficult to obtain. Specifically, among young people, there is genuine concern about the procedures for information gathering, the possible impact of this experience 1lpon the participants, and the applications of such research in educational programs. While it is important that education about sexuality be presented in a responsible manner, there is an equally vital problem for research. What, if any, effect does exposure to factual information about reproduction and objective discussion about sexual activity (within the interview setting) have on various individuals? What effect does it have on the development of subsequent sexual behavior? These questions are critical to research methodology and scientific responsibility. The general need for such follow-ups is clearly stated in the HEW Guidelines "Protection of the Individual as a Research Subject" (1969). They state: "This review (by the institution to which support is awarded) shall assure that, (a) the rights and welfare of the individuals involved are adequately protected, (b) the methods used to obtain informed consent are adequate and appropriateX and (c) the risks to the individual are outweighed by the potential benefit to him or the importance of the knowledge gained." The explicit need and responsibility in the area of sexuality is succinctly expressed by Sagarin (1969, pg. 3-4): "First, attention