Illusional beliefs in the context of risky sexual behaviors

Author(s): Black, D.

Journal/Book: J Appl Soc Psychol. 1997; 27: 360 South Ocean Blvd, pH-B, Palm Beach, FL 33480. V H Winston & Son Inc. 1727-1749.

Abstract: The function and maintenance of illusions were explored. Three groups were selected by comparing perceived risk for contracting an STD or becoming pregnant with reported sexual behaviors: realistic low risk (n = 33), realistic high risk (n = 23), and illusional low risk (n = 16). Illusional subjects tended to avoid exposure to risk information, deny its relevance, and experience no increase in negative affect when confronted with contraceptive information. In contrast, high-risk subjects expressed interest in viewing contraceptive information, acknowledged its relevance and, among women, experienced an increase in negative affect after viewing the information. Avoidance and denial were ego-protective, primarily for illusional subjects. Implications for research on the self-regulatory effects of illusional beliefs are discussed.

Note: Article Wiebe DJ, Univ Utah, Dept Psychol, Salt Lake City,UT 84112 USA

Keyword(s): POSITIVE ILLUSIONS; MENTAL-HEALTH; GAY MEN; AIDS; PERCEPTIONS; OPTIMISM; MEMORY

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