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Dimensions of Sexual Health Conversations among U.S. Black Heterosexual Couples

Author

Listed:
  • Natalie M. Leblanc

    (School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA)

  • Noelle M. St. Vil

    (School of Social Work, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14215, USA)

  • Keosha T. Bond

    (School of Medicine, City University of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA)

  • Jason W. Mitchell

    (Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33174, USA)

  • Adrian C. Juarez

    (School of Nursing, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77550, USA)

  • Faith Lambert

    (School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA)

  • Sadandaula R. Muheriwa

    (School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA)

  • James McMahon

    (School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA)

Abstract

Sexual health communication is an important feature of healthy intimate relationships; however, some couples may avoid discussing difficult matters (e.g., HIV/STI testing, sexual satisfaction) to minimize interpersonal conflict. From October 2018 to May 2019 in New York State, we conducted a multi-method descriptive pilot study to characterize Black heterosexual couples’ (N = 28) sexual health conversations. Partners individually completed an online sexual health/relationship survey before engaging in-person for a joint dyadic qualitative in-depth interview. Quantitative descriptive statistics demonstrated that most absolute score differences among couple’s preferences for sexual health outcomes, communal coping and sexual relationship power were mainly small, but greatest regarding extra-dyadic sexual behaviors. A qualitative descriptive approach discerned, motivation and norms for sexual health conversations, and communication patterns. Thematic and content analysis revealed two central themes: initiating and sustaining sexual health conversations , and leveraging features of the couples to promote sexual health . Integrated findings indicate that couples possess varied communication patterns that operate with motivations for sexual health conversations toward subsequent sexual health promotion. Equitable and skewed communication patterns emerged as relationship assets that can be leveraged to optimize sexual health. There is also opportunity for future work to address communication regarding extra-dyadic behavior and preferences. Asset-based considerations are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Natalie M. Leblanc & Noelle M. St. Vil & Keosha T. Bond & Jason W. Mitchell & Adrian C. Juarez & Faith Lambert & Sadandaula R. Muheriwa & James McMahon, 2022. "Dimensions of Sexual Health Conversations among U.S. Black Heterosexual Couples," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(1), pages 1-22, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2022:i:1:p:588-:d:1019193
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Adimora, A.A. & Schoenbach, V.J. & Doherty, I.A., 2007. "Concurrent sexual partnerships among men in the United States," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 97(12), pages 2230-2237.
    2. Najiha Alam & Pam Alldred, 2021. "Condoms, Trust and Stealthing: The Meanings Attributed to Unprotected Hetero-Sex," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(8), pages 1-14, April.
    3. Morris, M. & Kurth, A.E. & Hamilton, D.T. & Moody, J. & Wakefield, S., 2009. "Concurrent partnerships and HIV prevalence disparities by race: Linking science and public health practice," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 99(6), pages 1023-1031.
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