Self-actualization motive in sexual behavior of adolescent girls

The article presents the results of empirical research of interconnections between the self-actualization process in adolescents and peculiarities of their sexual life. The sample included 148 girls aged from 15 to 17 years old; 88 of them made up the group of sexually active girls and 60 of them – the group of girls abstaining from sexual activity but dating a partner. The research revealed that self-actualization motives in girls engaged in sexual activity and abstaining from it manifest in a different manner. Sexually active girls accept the values inherent to a self-actualizing personality; they are more appreciative of their strengths but also more dependent on the majority opinion. Self-actualization in girls abstaining from sex manifests as more independent views and opinions, more flexible and authentic behavior. The effect of certain traits of a self-actualizing personality on peculiarities of adolescent girls’ sexual behavior is analyzed in detail. The revealed factors allow describing the main trajectories of preventive and correctional work.

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