A Qualitative Follow-up of the Sexual and Negative Dating Inventory (SANDI): Barriers, Facilitators, and Context of Dating and Sexual Protective Behavioral Strategies Use

A strong association between alcohol use and adverse sexual experiences (e.g., sexual assault, risky sex, and regretted sexual experiences) exists on college campuses in the United States. The Sexual and Negative Dating Inventory (SANDI) is a recently developed measure of dating and sexual protective behavioral strategies (PBS). As part of the original development study, a subsample of participants (n = 15) was invited to participate in qualitative follow-up interviews examining contexts and environments in which they implement PBS. College students (93% female, Mage = 19.2, SDage = 1.01, 66% heterosexual) all endorsed regular alcohol use and engagement in dating behaviors. Qualitative thematic analysis of double-coded transcripts was conducted with the overarching three aims in mind: 1) to identify barriers of using dating and sexual protective behaviors, 2) to identify facilitators of using dating and sexual protective behaviors, and 3) to identify contexts in which dating and sexual protective behaviors are utilized. The following themes were identified across the three questions: 1a) trusting the other person/location, 1b) awareness of and anticipation for high-risk situations, 2a) decreased reactivity and responsivity in high-risk situation, 2b) not knowing the other person/location well, 3a) being in public, 3b) being in private, and 3c) depending on safety/comfort. Findings provide nuanced information on targeting problematic alcohol use and adverse sexual experiences among college students. Addressing barriers, facilitators, and contextual factors that influence PBS use is crucial for preventing and reducing adverse sexual experiences.