The Moderating Role of Cognitive Shema Activation on the Relationship Between Sexual Health Awareness and Adherence to Safe Sex Behaviours among Cisgender Generation Z Women in India

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine how cognitive schemas influence the relationship between sexual health awareness and adherence to safe sex practices among cisgender Generation Z women in India. Using a quantitative, cross-sectional design, 114 cisgender Indian women aged 18 to 29 who had prior sexual experience with cisgender men completed validated questionnaires assessing sexual health awareness, cognitive schema activation in sexual contexts, and safe sex behaviors. Data was analyzed using Spearman’s rho correlations and moderation analyses with bootstrapping, with both overall schema scores and individual subscales tested as moderators. Results indicated that while greater awareness was associated with stronger adherence to safe sex practices, maladaptive schemas, particularly helplessness, weakened this relationship. These findings highlight the role of psychological factors in translating awareness into behavior. This research adds to existing literature by addressing a gap in the Indian context, where cultural taboos and limited access to formal sex education present unique challenges. This study highlights the need for sexual health interventions that not only provide accurate information but also target underlying cognitive patterns, ensuring that awareness translates into consistent and empowered safe sex behaviors.