The Portrayal of Sexual Intercourse on Prime-Time Programming

Abstract

This study examines portrayals of acts and consequences of sexual intercourse on prime-time television programs. Results indicate that few types of consequences of intercourse are presented, headed by emotional outcomes. Both acts of intercourse and their consequences receive only minimal focus within programs. Consequences are nearly equally positively and negatively valenced, but have a slight leaning toward being portrayed as transient and emotionally insignificant. Movies include the greatest number of acts of sexual intercourse and the most consequences for this behavior. Generic differences are also identified in the contextual presentation of consequences. Findings are discussed in light of effects on viewers.