I get by with a little help from my friends: Examining the peer context of satisfaction with casual sexual relationships and experiences

Abstract

We examined the role of peers in understanding satisfaction with casual sexual relationships and experiences (CSREs) in young adulthood. Specifically, we examined how perception of peer CSRE engagement, communication with peers about CSREs and peer approval of CSRE engagement were associated with satisfaction both immediately following CSRE engagement and one month after the CSRE occurred. Participants from non-college and college samples completed an online battery of questionnaires at two time points surrounding a high alcohol-consumption event in the USA: Halloween. Path analysis results indicated that peer approval was positively associated with later satisfaction, but only for those in college. Additionally, intentions to communicate with peers were positively associated with satisfaction a month following CSRE, but only for those who engaged in non-penetrative sex. None of the tested associations was qualified by gender.