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Meunier É, Sauermilch D. Collective Sex and Committed Relationships: A Qualitative Exploration of Relationship Desires Among Gay Men Who Attend Sex Clubs. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2023; 70:519-541. [PMID: 34678136 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2021.1993662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Studies have documented gay men's engagement in collective sex (e.g., group sex in public or commercial environments) but little attention has been paid to these men's relationship desires or agreements. We report on qualitative interviews with 20 gay men who attended private sex clubs in New York City, asking how participants navigated sometimes conflicting desires for collective sex and committed relationships. Participants felt that collective sex was either a) incompatible with relationships, which should be monogamous; b) complementary to a primary non-monogamous relationship; or c) at least as important as relationships. Gay men attending sex clubs attribute different value to collective sex and to committed relationships, and experience different challenges in satisfying their desires for intimacy. Resources could help gay men navigating these apparently conflicting desires and making suitable choices regarding their relationships and/or sexual agreements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Étienne Meunier
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Daniel Sauermilch
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Long Island University Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York, USA
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2
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Choi KWY, Choi EPH, Chow EPF, Wan EYF, Wong WCW, Wong JYH, Fong DYT. The Experience of Using Dating Applications for Sexual Hook-Ups: A Qualitative Exploration among HIV-Negative Men Who Have Sex With Men in Hong Kong. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2021; 58:785-794. [PMID: 33656408 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1886227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) use dating applications (apps) to explore various romantic and sexual relationships. This qualitative study aimed to describe HIV-negative MSM's experiences with app usage, the sexual activities arranged accordingly and their experiences in using dating apps to arrange sexual encounters. Thirty-one MSM who were sexually active and who used dating apps were recruited. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed to outline significant phenomena and perceptions. The factors associated with matching on apps included sex roles, human immunodeficiency virus serostatus and availability of a venue for meetup. Facilitated by these apps, diverse types of sexual encounters were arranged. Condoms were typically used for safer intercourse, except by people who were younger and inexperienced or when drugs were consumed before or during sex (chemsex). Extensive interest in non-penetrative sexual behaviors was expressed by our sample. Searching for post-exposure prophylaxis methods and/or sexual health screenings was common after exposure to risk of infections. Sexually abusive encounters were followed by changes in sex-searching habits and lowered trust in relationship formation. The results of this study are important for the development of appropriate interventions to promote safer sexual practices among HIV-negative MSM dating app users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kitty W Y Choi
- School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong
- Sticky Rice Love
| | | | - Eric P F Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
- Central Clinical School, Monash University
| | - Eric Y F Wan
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, University of Hong Kong
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, University of Hong Kong
| | - William C W Wong
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, University of Hong Kong
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3
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Knox J, Boyd A, Matser A, Heijman T, Sandfort T, Davidovich U. Types of Group Sex and Their Association with Different Sexual Risk Behaviors Among HIV-Negative Men Who Have Sex with Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:1995-2003. [PMID: 32500245 PMCID: PMC7321909 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01744-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The current study sought to identify types of group sex acts among HIV-negative men who have sex with men (MSM) and assess their association with different sexual risk behaviors using cross-sectional data of group sex acts reported during 6 waves (2015-2018) of the Amsterdam MSM Cohort Study. Latent class analysis was performed to identify group sex types based on size, familiarity with partners, location, planning, and drug use. Associations between group sex types and sexual behaviors were evaluated using logistic regression with generalized estimating equations, employing the sample mean as a reference. Data at the level of group sex acts were analyzed, while correcting variance estimations for repeated measurements within MSM. A total of 392 MSM engaged in group sex ≥ 1 times, totaling 1033 group sex acts. Four types of group sex emerged: familiar (29%), intimate (27%), impromptu (36%), and party (8%). Familiar group sex (characterized by high proportions of mostly known partners, occurring in private places and involving drug use) had an increased adjusted odds of risky fingering (aOR 1.6, 95%CI 1.3-2.0) and of risky fisting and/or use of sex toys (aOR 2.3, 95%CI 1.6-3.1). Intimate group sex (characterized by high proportions of threesomes, occurring in private places, and not involving drug use) had a decreased adjusted odds of risky fisting and/or use of sex toys (aOR 0.6, 95%CI 0.4-0.9). Impromptu group sex (characterized by high proportions of spontaneity, mostly unknown partners, and taking place in public places) had a decreased adjusted odds of risky fisting and/or use of sex toys (aOR 0.5, 95%CI 0.3-0.7) and of condomless anal intercourse (CAI) (OR 0.6, 95%CI 0.5-0.8). Party group sex (characterized by high proportions of larger groups, mostly unknown partners, and being planned) had an increased adjusted odds of risky fisting and/or use of sex toys (aOR 1.6, 95%CI 1.0-2.7) and of CAI (aOR 1.5, 95%CI 1.1-2.1). The identified types of group sex reflect different dynamics and characteristics, with some types riskier for STIs and others riskier for HIV. HIV and STI prevention efforts could be tailored accordingly. For example, in certain type of public sex environments (e.g., cruising parks), traditional HIV and STI prevention efforts, such as promoting of condom use and PrEP, might be sufficient. However, in other settings (e.g., private parties), where group sex is more likely to be planned and where behaviors such as fisting, sharing of sex toys, and CAI are more likely to take place, which carry different levels of risk for HIV and STI transmission, including that of Hepatitis C, different approaches might be needed, such as broader HIV and STI prevention education efforts or targeting the organizers of group sex events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Knox
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Anders Boyd
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Amy Matser
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Titia Heijman
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Infectious Diseases, STI Outpatient Clinic, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Theo Sandfort
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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4
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Ferreira JP, Miskolci R. Homosexuality and biomarkers of aging in the production of gerontological knowledge by American, British, and Brazilian authors. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2020; 36:e00222618. [PMID: 32187295 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00222618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study reviewed articles originated in Brazil, in the United Kingdom, and in the United States from 1970 to September 2018 in the Web of Science database. Text mining techniques were used, and a predominantly qualitative analysis was performed, including correspondence analysis and sentiment analysis using the R Software (version 3.5.0) tools. Results show a repathologization of homosexuality in the gerontological knowledge production. This includes studies performed in 51 areas of knowledge in the three countries. That was followed by the depsychiatrization of homosexuality during the peak of deaths caused by AIDS, and its consequent recognition as an epidemiological threat. The article concludes reviewing the collected biomarkers, such as "sexual", "risk", "MSM", and "HIV/AIDS", which prove the progressive impact of sexual panic in gerontology studies and also associates AIDS with masculine homosexuality.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Paulo Ferreira
- Departamento de Sociologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
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5
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Lemke R. The association of the availability of offline gay scenes and national tolerance of homosexuality with gay and bisexual men's sexual online dating behavior. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2019.106172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Higa DH, Crepaz N, McDonald CM, Adegbite-Johnson A, DeLuca JB, Kamitani E, Sipe TA. HIV Prevention Research on Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Scoping Review of Systematic Reviews, 1988-2017. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2020; 32:1-S7. [PMID: 32073309 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2020.32.1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In the United States, men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV. To identify research gaps and inform HIV prevention for MSM, we conducted a scoping review of systematic reviews using CDC's Prevention Research Synthesis database. Eligibility criteria comprised English-language systematic reviews focused on HIV prevention for MSM, published during 1988-2017, and included at least one U.S. primary study. We coded data type, subpopulations, topics, and key findings. To assess study quality, we used the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR). Among 129 relevant systematic reviews, study quality was high or moderate for 63%. Most common topics were sexual behavior and disease vulnerability. The most frequently mentioned MSM subgroups were HIV-positive, Black or African American, and young. Research gaps include Hispanic/Latino MSM, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), treatment as prevention, social determinants of health, health disparities, syndemics, and protective factors for sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darrel H Higa
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nicole Crepaz
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Christina M McDonald
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Julia B DeLuca
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Emiko Kamitani
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Theresa Ann Sipe
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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7
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Eke AN, Johnson WD, O’Leary A, Rebchook GM, Huebner DM, Peterson JL, Kegeles SM. Effect of a Community-Level HIV Prevention Intervention on Psychosocial Determinants of HIV Risk Behaviors among Young Black Men Who Have Sex with Men (YBMSM). AIDS Behav 2019; 23:2361-2374. [PMID: 31016504 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02499-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In contrast to intervention studies that assess psychosocial factors only as mediators or moderators of HIV risk, the present study assessed the effects of an Mpowerment-based community-level intervention on psychosocial determinants (e.g., depressive symptoms, sexual stigma) of HIV risk behavior among young black MSM. Approximately 330 respondents were surveyed annually for 4 years in each of two sites. General linear models examined change across time between the intervention and comparison communities, and participation effects in the intervention site. Social diffusion (spreading information within networks) of safer sex messages (p < 0.01) and comfort with being gay (p < 0.05) increased with time in intervention versus control. Cross-sectionally, intervention participants responded more favorably (p < 0.05) on social diffusion and depressive symptoms, but less favorably (p < 0.01) on sex in difficult situations and attitudes toward condom use. Findings suggest a need to address broader health issues of MSM as well as sexual risk.
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8
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Frank K. Rethinking Risk, Culture, and Intervention in Collective Sex Environments. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:3-30. [PMID: 29748787 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1153-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2017] [Revised: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
This article provides a narrative overview of research on HIV/STI risk and collective sexual behavior based on an inclusive analysis of research on environments where people gather for sexual activity-sex clubs, swingers' clubs, bathhouses, parks, private sex parties, etc. The aim is to analyze how collective sex has been approached across disciplines to promote conversation across paradigms and suggest new lines of inquiry. Attention to context-such as the location of sex-was a necessary redress to universalizing models of sexual risk-taking behavior, leading to insights rooted in the particularities of each environment and its users. However, the identification of ever more precise risk groups or environmental idiosyncrasies eventually becomes theoretically restrictive, leading to an overestimation of the uniqueness of sexual enclaves, and of the difference between any given enclave and the broader social milieu. Using a theoretical framework of transgression to interpret the interdisciplinary literature, similarities in the spatial and social organization of collective sex environments are identified. Insights generated from this complementary perspective are then applied to understandings of collective sex: first, the example of male-female (MF) "swingers" is used to illustrate the need to establish, rather than assume, the distinctiveness of each non-normative sexual enclave, and to broaden the conceptualization of context; second, questions are raised about the practicality of interventions in collective sex environments. Finally, new lines of intellectual inquiry are suggested to shed light not just on collective sex but on sociosexual issues more generally, such as increasing protective sexual health behavior or negotiating consent in sexual encounters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Frank
- Department of Sociology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, 89557, USA.
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9
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Rusow JA, Fletcher JB, Reback CJ. Sexual Venue Choice and Sexual Risk-Taking Among Substance-Using Men Who have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:1149-1162. [PMID: 27905014 PMCID: PMC5370583 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1630-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Commercial sex venues (CSVs) and public sex environments (PSEs) offer men who have sex with men (MSM) sexual privacy and anonymity. Sociodemographic characteristics (e.g., race/ethnicity, sexual identity, age, HIV status) are correlated with individuals' choice of sexual venue, potentially suggesting environmental associations with both sociodemographics and sexual risk. From March 2005 through March 2012, 1298 substance-using MSM provided information on their most recent sexual encounter; iterative logit models estimated associations between sociodemographics and sexual venue, and/or whether sexual venue was associated with sexual risk-taking while controlling for sociodemographics. More than a third of participants' most recent sexual encounters took place in either a PSE (23.0%) or a CSV (11.3%); anonymous, HIV-serodiscordant, and/or sex while on methamphetamine and/or marijuana was significantly more likely to occur in CSVs/PSEs than in a private location, even when controlling for sociodemographics. Findings demonstrate that socioenvironmental factors were associated with sexual risk-taking among high-risk, urban MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A Rusow
- Friends Research Institute, Inc., 1419 N. La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90028, USA.
| | - Jesse B Fletcher
- Friends Research Institute, Inc., 1419 N. La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90028, USA
| | - Cathy J Reback
- Friends Research Institute, Inc., 1419 N. La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90028, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, 90095, USA
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10
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Is Location of Sex Associated with Sexual Risk Behaviour in Men Who Have Sex with Men? Systematic Review of Within-Subjects Studies. AIDS Behav 2016; 20:1219-27. [PMID: 25972073 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-015-1093-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
To understand associations between location of sex and sexual risk, it is most helpful to compare sexual encounters within persons. We systematically reviewed within-subjects comparisons of sexual encounters reported by men who have sex with men (MSM) with respect to location of sex. Within-subjects comparisons of sexual risk and location of sex were eligible if they collected data post-1996 from samples of MSM. We independently screened results and full-text records in duplicate. Of 6,336 deduplicated records, we assessed 138 full-text studies and included six, most of which compared unprotected anal intercourse against other anal intercourse. This small, but high quality, body of evidence suggests that associations between attendance at sex-on-premises venues and person-level sexual risk may be due to overall propensity towards unprotected sex. However, there may be some location factors that promote or are associated with serononconcordant unprotected anal intercourse. Health promoters may wish to focus on person-level characteristics.
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11
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McKie RM, Milhausen RR, Lachowsky NJ. "Hedge Your Bets": Technology's Role in Young Gay Men's Relationship Challenges. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2016; 64:75-94. [PMID: 27042757 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2016.1172883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Technology is playing an increasingly pervasive role among young gay men in the process of meeting potential romantic or sexual partners. We investigated challenges posed by technology related to young gay men's relationships. Focus groups (n = 9) of young gay men aged 18-24 (n = 43) were transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis was used to identify two major themes regarding challenges to relationship development and maintenance. Subthemes include unrealistic expectations of relationships, inauthentic self-presentation online, sexual primacy over romance, increased opportunities for infidelity, and jealousy. The implications of this study for sexual education and sexual health promotion are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond M McKie
- a Department of Psychology , Wilfrid Laurier University , Waterloo , Canada
| | - Robin R Milhausen
- b Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition , University of Guelph , Guelph , Canada
| | - Nathan J Lachowsky
- c Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada; Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work , University of Toronto , Toronto , Canada
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12
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Grov C, Rendina HJ, Ventuneac A, Parsons JT. Partners met via sex parties present significantly greater odds for condomless anal sex among MSM: an event-level analysis of venues where male partners are met. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2014; 67:564-8. [PMID: 25226209 PMCID: PMC4229438 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
One hundred forty-seven men who have sex with men completed time-line follow-back interviews about the venues where they met their male partners (n = 1180 sexual events with first-time partners, <30 days). We ran multivariate models to determine the association between venues and condomless anal sex (CAS). After adjusting for known correlates of CAS, partners met at sex parties presented significantly greater odds for CAS compared with meeting a partner at a gay bar/club (adjusted odds ratio = 0.44), online (adjusted odds ratio = 0.42), bathhouse (adjusted odds ratio = 0.35), or via "other" venues (adjusted odds ratio = 0.35), all P < 0.01. These findings highlight the need to develop innovative HIV/sexually transmitted infection prevention initiatives for men who attend sex parties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York (CUNY). 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY. 11210
- Doctoral Program in Public Health, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
| | - H. Jonathon Rendina
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
- Doctoral Program in Basic and Applied Social Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
| | - Ana Ventuneac
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
| | - Jeffrey T. Parsons
- Doctoral Program in Public Health, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
- Doctoral Program in Basic and Applied Social Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Doctoral Program in Health Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of CUNY
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13
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Grov C, Rendina HJ, Parsons JT. Comparing three cohorts of MSM sampled via sex parties, bars/clubs, and Craigslist.org: implications for researchers and providers. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2014; 26:362-82. [PMID: 25068182 PMCID: PMC4116634 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2014.26.4.362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
With limited exceptions, few studies have systematically reported on psychosocial and demographic characteristic differences in samples of men who have sex with men (MSM) based on where they were recruited. This study compared three sexually active cohorts of MSM recruited via Craigslist.org (recruited via modified time-space sampling), gay bars and clubs (recruited via time-space sampling), and private sex parties (identified via passive recruitment and listserves), finding mixed results with regard to differences in demographic characteristics, STI history, and psychosocial measures. Men recruited from sex parties were significantly older, reported more symptoms of sexual compulsivity, more likely to be HIV-positive, more likely to report a history of STIs, and more likely to self-identify as a barebacker, than men recruited from the other two venues. In contrast, men from Craigslist.org reported the lowest levels of attachment to the gay and bisexual community and were the least likely to self-identify as gay. Men from bars and clubs were significantly younger, and were more likely to report use of hallucinogens and crack or cocaine. Our findings highlight that the venues in which MSM are recruited have meaningful consequences in terms of the types of individuals who are reached.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York (CUNY). 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY. 11210
- Doctoral Program in Public Health, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
| | - H. Jonathon Rendina
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
- Doctoral Program in Basic and Applied Social Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
| | - Jeffrey T. Parsons
- Doctoral Program in Public Health, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
- Doctoral Program in Basic and Applied Social Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Doctoral Program in Health Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of CUNY
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14
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Meunier É. No attitude, no standing around: the organization of social and sexual interaction at a gay male private sex party in New York city. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2014; 43:685-95. [PMID: 23979786 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-013-0182-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Revised: 02/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/19/2013] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Following the onset of the AIDS epidemic, many jurisdictions have outlawed commercial sex-on-premise venues (bathhouses, adult theaters, sex clubs), greatly changing the culture of public or group sex. Today, in New York City (NYC), private sex parties are the main venues for group sex. Dozens of such events are held on a regular basis in the city, attracting sometimes a few hundred participants. Past research in group sex venues shows that different spaces allow for different kinds of sexual and social interaction. What are the norms of interaction of today's private sex parties? This article answers this question by using data collected ethnographically in one recurring gay male private sex party in NYC. The event was a small organization that brought all its participants together in one space at the same time, thus creating great physical intimacy and leading to convivial socialization and interpersonal bonding. This differs from the model of anonymous and impersonal sex that previous researchers have seen in public and commercial spaces. Private sex parties present risk for the transmission of HIV and other sexually-transmitted infections, but their organization and norms of interaction also present new avenues for prevention. Policy-makers should work to make these places safer rather than outlawing them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Étienne Meunier
- Sociology Department, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 26 Nichol Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA,
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15
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Grov C, Breslow AS, Newcomb ME, Rosenberger JG, Bauermeister JA. Gay and bisexual men's use of the Internet: research from the 1990s through 2013. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2014; 51:390-409. [PMID: 24754360 PMCID: PMC4154140 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2013.871626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
We document the historical and cultural shifts in how gay and bisexual men have used the Internet for sexuality between the 1990s and 2013-including shifting technology as well as research methods to study gay and bisexual men online. Gay and bisexual men have rapidly taken to using the Internet for sexual purposes: for health information seeking, finding sex partners, dating, cybersex, and pornography. Men have adapted to the ever-evolving technological advances that have been made in connecting users to the Internet-from logging on via dial-up modem on a desktop computer to geo-social-sexual networking via handheld devices. In kind, researchers have adapted to the Internet to study gay and bisexual men. Studies have carefully considered the ethics, feasibility, and acceptability of using the Internet to conduct research and interventions. Much of this work has been grounded in models of disease prevention, largely as a result of the ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemic. The need to reduce HIV in this population has been a driving force to develop innovative research and Internet-based intervention methodologies. The Internet, and specifically mobile technology, is an environment gay and bisexual men are using for sexual purposes. These innovative technologies represent powerful resources for researchers to study and provide outreach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Brooklyn College and the Graduate Center of CUNY, New York, NY. USA
- The Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), New York, NY. USA
| | - Aaron S. Breslow
- The Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), New York, NY. USA
| | - Michael E. Newcomb
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joshua G. Rosenberger
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Jose A Bauermeister
- The Center for Sexuality & Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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16
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Safika I, Johnson TP, Cho YI, Praptoraharjo I. Condom Use Among Men Who Have Sex With Men and Male-to-Female Transgenders in Jakarta, Indonesia. Am J Mens Health 2013; 8:278-88. [PMID: 24203992 DOI: 10.1177/1557988313508430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This article examined differences in condom use during anal intercourse among men who have sex with men (MSM) and male-to-female transgender women in Jakarta, Indonesia. A cross-sectional design, structured interviews, and hierarchical linear modeling were used to examine condom use among MSM recruited from entertainment places (EPs; e.g., discotheques/dance clubs/karaoke bars), massage parlors (MPs), and among transgender women who congregated and/or sought sexual partners on streets/parks (S/P). The sample consisted of 91, 97, and 114 of MSM-EP, MSM-MP, and transgender-S/P, respectively. Respondents reported on 641 unique sexual partner encounters, which were "nested" within 302 respondents. Reported condom use was high, 66%, 84%, and 83% for MSM-EP, MSM-MP, and transgender-S/P, respectively, and varied across type of respondent. At the individual level, depressive symptoms and history of physical abuse during childhood and adulthood were associated with lower condom use (p < .05). By contrast, having a higher level of education was associated with more condom use (p < .05). At the partner level, condom use was associated with type of partners and the use of club drugs before sex. HIV-prevention efforts should take into account the multilevel determinants of condom use within these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iko Safika
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Young Ik Cho
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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17
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Grov C. HIV risk and substance use in men who have sex with men surveyed in bathhouses, bars/clubs, and on Craigslist.org: venue of recruitment matters. AIDS Behav 2012; 16:807-17. [PMID: 21748276 PMCID: PMC5826651 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-011-9999-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
There has been little evaluation regarding whether men who have sex with men (MSM) recruited in one type of venue differ in behavioral and demographic characteristics from those recruited in others. We surveyed MSM in gay bars/clubs (n = 199), bathhouses (n = 194), and off Craigslist.org (n = 208). Men in bathhouses reported the greatest average number of partners and were less likely to disclose their HIV status. Among men reporting anal sex; those on Craigslist reported the least condom use. Finally, men surveyed in gay bars/clubs were the youngest of the three and the most likely to be single; they also reported the highest levels of attachment to the gay community and the most frequent alcohol use. Our findings demonstrate the need to tailor HIV prevention efforts to the location in which they are targeted, and for researchers to evaluate if participants differ by recruitment source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York, 11210, USA.
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18
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Grov C, Crow T. Attitudes about and HIV risk related to the "most common place" MSM meet their sex partners: comparing men from bathhouses, bars/clubs, and Craigslist.org. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2012; 24:102-16. [PMID: 22468972 PMCID: PMC5824633 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2012.24.2.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
This study examined attitudes toward the most common place where men who have sex with men (MSM) met their recent male sex partners. In 2009-2010, MSM were surveyed in bars/clubs, bathhouses, and on Craigslist.org . We found strong but differential overlap between venue of recruitment and participants' most common place: 81% of men from Craigslist indicated their most common place was the Internet, 65% of men from bathhouses indicated their most common place was bathhouses, and 47% of men from bars/clubs indicated their most common place was bars/clubs. In general, interest in seeing more information on drugs/alcohol and HIV and interacting with a health outreach worker in participants' most common place ranged from "agree" to "strongly agree." However, men whose most common place was bars/clubs rated these items lowest on average. Rates of unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) were high (43%), thus targeted efforts in bars/clubs, bathhouses, and on the Internet may be ideal venues for reaching high-risk MSM. Although most common place was unrelated to UAI, it was related to factors that contextualize men's encounters (e.g., attitudes toward HIV status disclosure, and perceptions about barebacking, anonymous sex, and alcohol use). Outreach providers should consider these contextualizing aspects as they continue to retool their efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences at Brooklyn College of the City University of New York (CUNY), 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11210, USA.
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19
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Correlates of HIV testing uptake among kothi-identified men who have sex with men in public sex environments in Chennai, India. AIDS Behav 2012; 16:53-62. [PMID: 21630011 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-011-9974-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Kothi-identified men who have sex with men in India are highly marginalized and are at high-risk for HIV. This study examines HIV testing among 132 self-reported HIV-negative and unknown serostatus kothis recruited from public sex environments in Chennai, India. Using logistic regression we identified variables associated with HIV testing uptake (i.e., being tested and knowing the result). Sixty-one percent reported HIV testing uptake. At the bivariate level, married men, those with low HIV transmission knowledge, those who engaged in unprotected anal sex and unprotected receptive anal sex were at lower odds of reporting testing uptake. In multivariate analysis, married men and those with low levels of HIV transmission knowledge were at decreased odds of being tested, as were kothis who experienced forced sex. Culturally competent programs engaging married kothis are needed. Interventions to facilitate HIV prevention education and systemic interventions to combat sexual violence may facilitate HIV testing uptake among kothis.
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20
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Mustanski BS, Newcomb ME, Du Bois SN, Garcia SC, Grov C. HIV in young men who have sex with men: a review of epidemiology, risk and protective factors, and interventions. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2011; 48:218-53. [PMID: 21409715 PMCID: PMC3351087 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2011.558645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 208] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have found that young men who have sex with men (YMSM) represent the majority of young people infected with HIV annually in the United States. Further, they are one of the few risk groups to show an increase in the rate of infections in recent years. In addition to these disparities in prevalence and infection rates, there is an inequity in prevention and intervention research on this population. The purpose of this article is to review the existing YMSM literature on HIV epidemiology, correlates of risk, and intervention research. The article concludes that promising future directions for basic research include a focus on multiple clustering health issues, processes that promote resiliency, the role of family influences, and the development of parsimonious models of risk. In terms of intervention research, the article suggests that promising future directions include Internet-based intervention delivery, integration of biomedical and behavioral approaches, and interventions that go beyond the individual level to address partnership, structural, community, and network factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian S Mustanski
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60608, USA.
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21
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Downing MJ. Internet advertisements for public sexual encounters among men who have sex with men: are safe behaviors communicated? Am J Mens Health 2010; 5:386-94. [PMID: 20798144 DOI: 10.1177/1557988310376958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Public and commercial sex venues typically provide easy access to sexual encounters that are often anonymous and, therefore, may facilitate HIV/STD transmission among those men who attend. Recently, researchers have suggested that men who have sex with men may be using the Internet to search for sexual encounters to occur within sex venues. The current study explored the extent to which men who advertise for public or commercial sexual encounters initially communicate to potential partners their safe-sex intentions. Advertisements for sexual encounters (n = 99) were collected from a publicly accessible website and examined for content related to venue type, sexual behavior, and indications of sexual safety or risk. Word frequencies were calculated to provide a closer investigation of how individuals negotiate safe sex within these communications. The findings revealed that approximately half of the men who advertised for sex in a public or commercial sex venue failed to communicate to potential partners in their initial advertisement a desire to be safe during sexual encounters involving oral and anal practices. Additionally, a small percentage of men advertised specifically for risky encounters (e.g., barebacking). Together, these findings suggest that men do use the Internet to coordinate public sexual encounters, some of which may be unprotected from HIV/STD transmission. Future research should address the process of condom negotiation among men who initially meet their male sex partners on the Internet for subsequent encounters in sex venues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin J Downing
- Environmental Psychology, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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