Sexuality Across the Lifespan

This research project has been approved by the University of Minnesota Institutional Review Board, IRB Code Number: 0612S97607. The IRB can be contacted by mailing irb@umn.edu.

Consent Form

You are invited to be in a research study of personality, sexuality, and close relationships. Please read this page and email any questions that you may have to lifespan.sexuality@gmail.com before agreeing to participate in the study. This study is being conducted by Dr. Jeff Simpson, Professor of Psychology, University of Minnesota, in collaboration with several colleagues.

Background Information

The purpose of this study is to examine the purpose and function of sexual activity in different kinds of relationships. The questions you will answer will be in regards to the romantic nature of your relationship as well as your sexual activity.

You must be at least 18 years old and currently in a romantic relationship to participate.

Procedures:

If you agree to participate in this study, you will be asked to do the following things.

You will be asked to complete several online questionnaires that ask about various aspects of yourself, including your personality, your personal beliefs about relationship issues including sexual activity, and your views about romantic relationships in general. Instructions will be on your screen. The study should take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete. Examples of questions you will be asked include:

How content are you with your relationship?

Over the past 4 weeks, how would you rate your level of sexual arousal during sexual activity or intercourse?

During sexual activity, have you worried about your sexual “performance.” (which you will indicate by rating how much you agree or disagree with the statement)

And

How would you rate your level of sexual desire or interest?

Once you have completed the questionnaires, you have completed the study.

Risks and Benefits of being in the Study

Participation in this study entails several possible risks. First, you may be asked to answer some questions that you are uncomfortable answering. Second, you may learn some new things about yourself or your relationship in the study that you did not previously realize. This new knowledge could raise some concerns. The questions that you will be answering are, however, typical of studies on relationships and personality.

Although it is unlikely that you will encounter any new realizations that are concerning, it is possible. In addition, if you are a very private person, some of the questions may feel personal. You may refuse to answer any question or discontinue participation at any time during the study with no risk. If you have specific questions about one of your relationships, you can call University Counseling Services at (612) 624-3323 or (612) 624-1444. You may also call a national toll-free hotline from the list at:

http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publications/allpubs/SMA01-3509/page3.asp

There are no known benefits for participation in the study.

Compensation:

There is no compensation for your participation.

Confidentiality:

The records of this study will be kept completely private. In any sort of report that might be published, we will not include any information that will make it possible to identify any research participant. Research records will be stored in a secure and locked location, and only researchers will have access to the data.

Voluntary Nature of the Study:

Participation in this study is completely voluntary. Your decision about whether or not to participate will not affect your current or future relations with the University of Minnesota in any way. If you decide to participate, you are free to not answer any question or to withdraw at any time without affecting those relationships.

Contacts and Questions:

The lead researcher conducting this study is Dr. Jeff Simpson. You may ask any questions that you have at this time. If you have questions later, you are encouraged to contact Dr. Simpson at N394 Elliott Hall, 612-626-0025, or at simps108@umn.edu.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this study and would like to talk to someone other than the researchers, you are encouraged to contact the Research Subjects' Advocate Line, D528 Mayo, 420 Delaware St. Southeast, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455; (612) 625-1650.

You will be given a copy of this information to keep for your records upon request.

Statement of Consent:

I have read the above information. I have asked questions and have received answers. I consent to participate in this study.

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