The role of ambiguity in sexual encounters between young people in England

This paper explores the role of ambiguity in sexual encounters between young people. It is based on a qualitative study of young peoples' communication about sexual matters whilst on a date. Focus groups (4) and semi-structured interviews (n = 29) were conducted with young people (aged 16-29) in three areas of England. The results suggest that ambiguity may serve a useful function in the management of ambivalence during sexual encounters; may protect the self and others from the pain of rejection; and may guard against the possibility of making a false assumption. In such contexts, ambiguity may constitute a reasoned or rational response to a given set of circumstances. This rationality needs to be acknowledged by health professionals. Ambiguity is also sometimes construed as an appropriate mode of communication for a passive female role. Given the complex motivations behind the adoption of ambiguous cues, discussion-based teaching and peer group formats may be more appropriate than didactic teaching methods when helping young people to adopt more direct communication strategies.