Alcohol intoxication and self-reported risky sexual behaviour intentions with highly attractive strangers in naturalistic settings

Objective: The present investigation examined the relationship between alcohol intoxication and risky sex intentions in naturalistic settings. Methods: Heterosexual young adults (n = 72) were approached at a campus pub and at campus parties. Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was measured by a breath test and ranged from 0 to 0.18%. Participants rated their likely intent to have sex with 10 highly attractive unfamiliar models of the opposite gender, as depicted in photographs, if the opportunity arose. Photos varied in terms of accompanying information regarding risk, with three levels: slight risk, moderate risk and high risk. Results: BAC was significantly positively correlated with self-reported likelihood of young adult men engaging in risky sex with highly attractive unfamiliar models at all risk levels, whereas in young adult women the relationship was significant only at the slight risk level. Men reported significantly higher intent to have risky sex than women did at all risk levels. Conclusions: Results are discussed in terms of the framework of alcohol myopia theory as well as alternative interpretations.