You sometimes wonder why people have unsafe sex. And I mean that in the broadest sense of the word. Not only does not everyone use a condom in situations where it would really be wiser, some people also take risks when dating or when communicating online. Sometimes alcohol or drugs play a role, and some people are simply more thrill seeking than others. Some may do risky things because they feel pressured. Being sexually aroused can also be a factor when it comes to taking risks.
Tunnel vision
Research shows that we get a kind of ‘tunnel vision’ when we get sexually excited. We are so focused on sexual gratification that we lose sight of other important things. This makes us reckless and that can lead to risky behavior (both sexual and non-sexual).
In one of these studies, a group of people were shown porn movies and another group a non-sexually television programs. The participants were then asked a number of questions about hypothetical situations. In a similar study, the participants then played blackjack
In the first study, the men and women who watched porn were more willing to engage in sexually risky situations, such as continuing sex after the condom was torn with a new partner.
In the second study, the excited candidates (both men and women) took a risk in the blackjack game. For example, if they had cards with a total of 15, 16 or 17 (when there is a good chance of getting busted), the excited candidates often still drew another card.
Judgement
Based on these research results it is safe to conclude that our ability to objectively assess a risk diminishes if we are sexually aroused. This may explain why people sometimes put their own rules aside. If you intend to have safe sex, or not have sex on a first date, such intentions can be canceled just like that when we get excited. If you then add other factors, such as alcohol or peer pressure, the risky behavior increases even further.
That is why it is important that you prepare yourself when you can still think clearly. For example, always make sure you have condoms with you in case. Or talk about safe sex the moment you are not both excited.
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