Development of the Japanese sexual sensation seeking scale and its association with condom use behavior

This study developed and validated the Japanese version of the Sexual Sensation Seeking Scale (SSSS-J) for individuals engaging in heterosexual behavior. We constructed a preliminary 20-item scale and conducted two cross-sectional surveys by drawing on existing sexual sensation-seeking measures and incorporating culturally appropriate expressions. Study 1 included 1,103 participants aged 18–24 years, and Study 2 included 528 participants aged 18–29 years. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported a three-factor structure consisting of sexual thrill seeking, sexual permissiveness, and hedonistic sexual orientation, with acceptable reliability and construct validity. Structural equation modeling indicated that sexual sensation seeking indirectly and negatively predicted condom use behavior through attitudes toward condom use. In contrast, knowledge about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) did not significantly predict condom use behavior. These findings highlight the importance of considering psychological traits, such as sexual sensation seeking, in STI prevention efforts, particularly in cultural contexts where sexual expression is complex and socially nuanced. The SSSS-J provides a psychometrically sound instrument for assessing sexual sensation seeking among Japanese individuals who engage in heterosexual behavior and demonstrates both cultural relevance and theoretical consistency.