Why embarrassment inhibits the acquisition and use of condoms: A qualitative approach to understanding risky sexual behaviour

Bell, Jo

Abstract

This article is based on research commissioned by the UK Government's Teenage Pregnancy Unit. The Living on the Edge (LOTE) study qualitatively explored factors that shape young people's experiences and attitudes towards sexual behaviour and young parenthood in three linked seaside and rural areas in England. It identifies embarrassment as a key risk factor in young people's sexual behaviour and demonstrates why engaging in protective behaviour and seeking information and advice, can be constrained by fear of embarrassment and concerns about how they are regarded by others. This paper also argues that embarrassment around condom use is not necessarily restricted to adolescence. Embarrassment is a deeply unpleasant experience for everyone and people (young and old) are motivated to avoid it. Implications and recommendations for future policy and service provision are highlighted. © 2008 The Association for Professionals in Services for Adolescents.

Citation

Bell, J. (2009). Why embarrassment inhibits the acquisition and use of condoms: A qualitative approach to understanding risky sexual behaviour. Journal of Adolescence, 32(2), 379-391. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2008.01.002

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Online Publication Date: Aug 8, 2008
• Publication Date: Apr 1, 2009
• Deposit Date: Nov 13, 2014
• Journal: Journal Of Adolescence
• Print ISSN: 0140-1971
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 32
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 379-391
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2008.01.002
• Keywords: Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health; Developmental and Educational Psychology; Psychiatry and Mental health; Social Psychology
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/461469
• Publisher URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0140197108000031?via%3Dihub
• Contract Date: Nov 13, 2014