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Catchin' Feelings: Experiences of Intimacy during Black College Students' Sexual Encounters
- Journal of Black Sexuality and Relationships
- University of Nebraska Press
- Volume 5, Number 2, Fall 2018
- pp. 81-107
- 10.1353/bsr.2018.0021
- Article
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abstract:
Research regarding intimacy within Black relationships is often deficiency-focused, reinforcing negative stereotypes about Black people's capacity to relate in sexual and romantic relationships. Utilizing social exchange theory and social learning theory as a combined framework, we examined intimacy-related narratives of 18 Black college students during their first and last sexual encounters. A thematic analysis constructed five themes: (a) limited knowledge of intimacy, (b) internal barriers to non-sexual intimacy, (c) external barriers to non-sexual intimacy, (d) seeking an emotional connection, and (e) experiencing intimacy. Findings suggest varying perspectives and experiences related to intimacy. Intimacy barriers and facilitators are discussed.