Uncertainty reduction strategies in casual sexual relationships among college age women

Abstract

Casual sexual relationships have become a common and unique part of college student’s lives. Because these relationships are very ambiguous they can create uncertainty in individuals who are participating in them. This study uses uncertainty reduction theory to examine the participant’s uncertainty through the use of journaling. Based on the data, a model is presented which examines four separate types of uncertainties found in the study (physical, cognitive, emotional, behavioral) and shows the uncertainty reduction techniques used by the participants and the outcomes.