Making a Decision The decision to have sexual intercourse is a major one. Many factors affect this decision, and many factors will be affected by it. People engage in sexual activity for a variety of reasons that are often unrelated to love and often without regard to the consequences of that behavior. Directions:Listed below are factors that may influence your decision to engage in sexual activity. Rank each of these factors as to how they affect your behavior now and when you are in a situation in which you have to make a decision. This activity is not handed in, so answer as truthfully as possible. |
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Not Important |
Slightly Important |
Important |
Very Important |
Extremely Important | |
Risk of Aids |
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Risk of other STD |
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Risk of pregnancy |
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Sexual history of partner |
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Partner not an IV drug user |
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Biological gratification (physical sensations) |
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Need for money |
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Desire to be accepted by partner/cultural group |
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Dissipation of stress or to get mind off other problems |
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Intense need to feel loved/cared for |
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Sign of commitment in a relationship |
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Expression of love for partner |
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Monogamous relationship |
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Desire for a variety of partners |
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Evidence of desirability |
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Proof of sexual prowess |
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In examining your responses, consider asking your potential partner to also take this assessment as a basis for discussion. As you assess your responses, note the factors that are important to you in making this decision. - What are the most important factors?
- Does the person you are considering having sex with have any factors that you consider to be negative? What are they?
- How important are these factors to you?
- How severe are the potential consequences of your or your partner's ideas and/or actions?
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