Parental sexual communication, sexual self-efficacy, and sexual anxiety among young adults
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29120/ijpsw.v17i1.698Abstract
Background: This study examines the impact of parental sexual communication on young adults' sexual self-efficacy and anxiety, with an emphasis on gender differences. Effective parental communication is crucial for promoting safe sexual behaviours, boosting confidence, and mitigating fears associated with sexual health. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional design involved 200 young adults aged 18–29 from Maharashtra, selected using convenience sampling. Data collection utilised the Sexual Health Practices Self-Efficacy Scale (SHPSES), Sex Anxiety Inventory (SAI), and Family Sex Communication Quotient (FSCQ). Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, linear regression, and independent t-tests were conducted to explore relationships and gender differences. Results: Parental sexual communication showed a small positive correlation with sexual self-efficacy (r = 0.140, p < 0.05) but no significant correlation with sexual anxiety (r = -0.120). Regression analysis confirmed that Parental sexual communication was significantly associated with sexual self-efficacy, although the regression model explained only 2% (R² = 0.020, p < 0.001) of the variance. Gender differences revealed no variation in sexual self-efficacy and parental sexual communication but highlighted higher sexual anxiety in females compared to males (t = -5.779, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings emphasise the critical role of parental communication in enhancing young adults’ sexual self-efficacy, while the observed gender disparities in sexual anxiety underline the need for gender-specific strategies to address emotional challenges in sexual health. These results highlight the value of open, informed parental dialogues in fostering positive sexual development.
Keywords: Parental sexual communication, sexual anxiety, sexual self-efficacy, sexual behaviour, sexual awareness
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