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Friends with benefits or “friends” with deficits? The meaning and contexts of uncommitted sexual relationships among Mexican American and European American adolescents

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  • Williams, Lela Rankin
  • Adams, Heidi L.

Abstract

Using focus groups, this study sought to understand and compare how Mexican American (n=41, M=16.0years old, SD=.96) and European American (n=34, M=16.1years old, SD=.64) youths conceptualize and experience “friends with benefits” relationships (FWBRs). Contrary to the implied nature of friendship, partners did not show caring and viewed FWBRs as a means to meet sexual needs. The “benefits” of this arrangement included guilt-free pleasure, little responsibility, the freedom to date others, or to remain available for a more desirable partner. The inherent deficits of FWBRs, on the other hand, included the potential pitfall of getting emotionally attached. Despite the recognized deficits, European American and Mexican American girls both desired and participated in FWBRs. However, Mexican American girls described more committed “going-out” relationships as ideal, which left them vulnerable to mismatched expectations and emotional upset in FWBRs. Findings outline the socio-emotional contexts of adolescent involvement in FWBRs, as well as underscore the potential for conflicting desires. Recommendations for healthy relationship and sexual health programs are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Williams, Lela Rankin & Adams, Heidi L., 2013. "Friends with benefits or “friends” with deficits? The meaning and contexts of uncommitted sexual relationships among Mexican American and European American adolescents," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 35(7), pages 1110-1117.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:35:y:2013:i:7:p:1110-1117
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2013.04.023
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Adams, Heidi L. & Williams, Lela Rankin, 2011. "Advice from teens to teens about dating: Implications for healthy relationships," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 33(2), pages 254-264, February.
    2. Fortenberry, J.D. & Tu, W. & Harezlak, J. & Katz, B.P. & Orr, D.P., 2002. "Condom use as a function of time in new and established adolescent sexual relationships," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 92(2), pages 211-213.
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