increasing role for sexuality in the individual’s self-concept. Therefore, they describe the
transition through the different stages but do not attempt to analyse the cognitions that
may promote this transition.Lindemann’s three-stage theory
Lindemann (1977) developed the three-stage theory of contraception use, which
suggests that the likelihood of an individual using contraception increases as they
progress through the three stages:1 Natural stage: at this stage intercourse is relatively unplanned, and the individual
does not regard themselves as sexual. Therefore, contraception use is unlikely.Fig. 8-1 Percentage using no contraception at first intercourse, by age at first intercourse
(after Wellings et al. 1994)188 HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY