POWER AND INTIMACY - ON THE DYNAMICS OF RISKY SEX

The theory of interpersonalism was used to examine how relationship go als, beliefs about safer sex practices, and communication resources ma y predict risky sexual behaviors (e.g., condom use and multiple sexual partners) for a high-risk population. A low-to middle-income African American population(N= 306) was sampled. As number of sexual partners increased, both men and women viewed relationship-building goals as le ss important and power goals as more important. Despite their desire-l ike men-for power, women with multiple partners appeared less assertiv e, had poorer communication skills, and exhibited less control over se xual relationships than did women with fewer partners. Men with more p artners, on the other hand, did not have fewer skills, but felt there was little point in taking precautions against HIV. As rate of condom use increased, participants reported more positive relationship goals, beliefs compatible with HIV prevention, and assertive communication b ehaviors and sexual negotiation skills.