Seeking security or seeking pleasure in sexual behavior? Examining how individual motives shape condom use attitudes

Research has consistently shown that motives for security (i.e., prevention focus) or pleasure promotion determine risk perception and behaviors in several domains, including sexual health. We tested if being more focused on was associated with condom use attitudes the perceived of HIV infection explained these associations. Participants (N = 405, 61.7% women; Mage 23.10, SD 5.06) took part an online cross-sectional study. found positive associations between both regulatory foci attitudes. Mediation analyses further showed participants who were condoms as reliable, attributed less stigma to use, embarrassed about negotiation. These by infection. Results also revealed a few personality traits moderations age gender. findings highlight importance considering individual gain understanding how can shape health decision-making.