Examination of the factors affecting the sexual sensation seeking levels and personality traits of emerging adults in Türkiye

The aim of this study is determine the factors affecting the sexual sensation seeking levels and personality traits of emerging adults in Türkiye. This research conducted between January and May 2024 with 377 emerging adults aged 18–29 studying at a university in the Mediterranean Region of Türkiye. Data were collected via Google form using the “Personal Information Form”, “Sexual Sensation Seeking Scale” and “Five-Factor Personality Scale”. Descriptive statistics, ANOWA, T-test, Pearson correlation test and hierarchical multiple regression were used to analyze the data. It has been determined that the level of sexual sensation seeking and personality characteristics vary according to some socio-demographic characteristics. It was determined that there was a positive relationship between the level of sexual excitement seeking and Extraversion, a negative relationship with Agreeableness, and a positive and significant relationship between Openness to Experience. The fact that sexuality is forbidden and taboo in Turkish culture causes emerging adults not to have access to accurate and sufficient information about their sexual health. Especially Turkish emerging adults, who have extroverted, open to experience and non-conformist personality traits, have a high level of sexual sensation seeking, which may increase their risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases.