The effects of partner insistence of condom usage on perceptions of the partner, the relationship, and the experience

Abstract The present study examined the effects of an individual insisting on condom usage on how he or she is viewed by their partner. Participants were led through a realistic role-play scenario in which, after dating a new partner for “a while”, they engaged in sexual intercourse. Results were such that after first time sex, participants indicated feeling more responsible, less at-risk, and less worried when a condom was used than when no condom was used. Participants evaluated their partner as more responsible, more caring, and less likely to have a sexually transmitted disease when a condom was used. Further, when a condom was used, the relationship was evaluated as enhanced, closer, more intimate, and more likely to be long lasting. The insistence of condom use by the participant's partner also resulted in less guilt and regret regarding the sexual experience itself. These results generally held true for both male and female participants.