Playing sexual chess : changing through first sexual experiences

Abstract

This qualitative study seeks to explore the first sexual experiences through the eyes of eight young adults and identify the changes (if any) to the person's personality, behaviour and self. The narrative interviews show in detail, the memories of these experiences and highlight changes to the self-esteem and self-perception that may be either positive or negative depending on the participant's perception of the experience. The themes which emerged through these interviews were expectations prior to the experience, peer pressure, the partner, performance issues, rite of passage, self-esteem and confidence, rebelliousness, society and institutional effects, and changes in views concerning sex. It was found that differences of perception existed between the male and female participants. The majority of the female participants lost confidence and perceived their first sexual experience as negative. The majority of the male participants gained confidence and self-esteem however they had fears regarding performance issues. Their opinion concerning society's stance on sex was also discussed. The results obtained contribute to a better understanding regarding the emotions and changes that people experience when losing their virginity.