VALUE ORIENTATIONS AND RISKY SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR AMONG FIRST YEAR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Background. There is strong evidence that values play an important role in basic patterns of human behaviour, but there is a lack of support for this with respect to sexual behaviour. This study examines the relationship between the value orientations of young adults and their sexual behaviour. Material and methods. The Rokeach Value Survey (18 terminal values - desirable end-states; 18 instrumental values - desirable modes of conduct) and a questionnaire on sexual behaviour (number of sexual partners in one's lifetime, condom use, and sex with an unknown person) were administered to 832 students (355 males; mean age = 20.5 years). Six factors were extracted from the Rokeach Value Survey. Logistic regression was performed on students who had had sexual experience (n = 455) using the measures pertaining to risky sexual behaviour as outcomes and each of the value factors as separate predictors. Results. The students with high scores on the value factors relating to Social Orientation (Capable, Clean, Obedient, Polite, Responsible, Honest) and Sense of Fellowship (Broad-Minded, Helpful, Forgiving) were less likely to report risky sexual behaviour than the students with low scores on these value factors. Conclusions. Individuals who consider socially oriented values to be more important are less likely to engage in risky sexual behaviour. The promotion of safe sex should take health values into account.