B - 69 Risky Sexual Behavior in Young Adult Men: Decision Making, Impulsivity, and the Theory of Planned Behavior.

Abstract

To examine a biopsychosocial model (decision-making, trait impulsivity, social cognition) of risky sexual behavior (RSB) in men. Using cross-sectional and non-clinical data, 145 (66% White) single men (Mage = 22.0 y, SD = 1.7) were recruited from a research platform and subject pool. Outcomes were RSB (continuous), condom use (binary), and number of partners (count) in 6months. We assessed the effects of decision-making (Balloon Analogue Risk Task), trait impulsivity (UPPS-P), and social cognition (Theory of Planned Behavior-Condom Use Questionnaire) on RSB. We present reduced models with 95% confidence intervals adjusted for age, sexual orientation, and pre-exposure prophylaxis use. Trait impulsivity was associated with RSB in all three regression models. Positive Urgency (B = 9.16 [5.18, 13.14]) and Perseverance were associated (B = -8.61 [-12.93, -4.30]) with overall RSB. Premeditation (OR = 4.50 [1.63, 12.39] and Perseverance (OR = 0.25 [0.10, 0.61]) were associated with condomless intercourse. Finally, Positive Urgency (IRR = 2.11 [1.50, 2.96]) and Perseverance (IRR = 0.29 [0.19, 0.46]) were associated with partner count. Decision-making and social cognition were non-significant. This study underscores the importance of trait impulsivity in risky sex-beyond demographics, decision-making, and social cognition. Men with poorer consideration of consequences and those who take risks during positive mood engaged in greater RSB. In contrast, individuals with a propensity toward boredom might not delay gratification long enough when pursuing a partner to engage in RSB. Therefore, trait impulsivity is a critical area for future research to develop screening and intervention to promote sexual health.