Let’s talk about sex
Summary
The aim of this study was to investigate whether sexual self-efficacy (in assertiveness, setting boundaries and using contraceptives) was more positive when late-adolescents reported more communication with best friends about sex-related topics. Adolescents (N = 333, 66% female) aged 18-24 completed the online survey about their sexual self-efficacy, and the quality and frequency of their sexual related communication with one chosen best friend. Female adolescents talked more about sexual implications, for example pregnancy. There was no gender difference for talking about sexual behaviour, dangers and communication quality. More frequent communication with best friends about sex-related topics was associated with more communication quality, with the exception of communication about sexual dangers. Female adolescents reported more positive sexual self-efficacy in setting boundaries, male adolescents reported more sexual self-efficacy in assertiveness and using contraceptives. Participants reported more positive sexual self-efficacy when they had more quality communication with their best friend. Participants reported more positive self-efficacy in setting sexual boundaries when they talked more about sexual behaviour and implications. Associations between communication about sexual dangers and sexual self-efficacy in assertiveness and using contraceptives were found when gender was considered as a moderator.