Gender Differences in Psychological Distress Following Casual Sexual Encounters

Abstract

This study examined gender differences in psychological distress related to casual sexual encounters, focusing on the role of sociosexual orientation. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from young adults through standardized self-report measures, including the Sociosexual Orientation Inventory (SOI), the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale – Short Form (DERS-18). Sociosexual orientation reflects an individual’s openness to uncommitted sexual relationships, while psychological distress was assessed through negative affect and difficulties in emotion regulation. Positive affect was also included to provide a broader understanding of emotional outcomes.

The study aimed to examine whether higher sociosexual orientation is associated with greater psychological distress and whether these relationships differ across gender. It was expected that individuals with a more unrestricted sociosexual orientation would report higher negative affect and more difficulties in regulating emotions, with gender differences influenced by sociocultural factors.

These findings are expected to contribute to existing literature by clarifying how individual differences and gender shape emotional responses to casual sexual experiences, with implications for understanding both positive and negative outcomes.