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Jelicich R, Braun V. "Your Diet Defines Who You Are, Especially as a Man": Masculinity in Online Media Focused on Healthy Eating for Men. Am J Mens Health 2023; 17:15579883231213588. [PMID: 38130065 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231213588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In contexts marked by neoliberal ideology and a claimed "crisis" in men's health, men are responsibilized to be/come healthy. Eating has long been a gendered practice in Western cultures, and recent cultural shifts have produced ways of eating that are both masculinized and (claimed) healthy. Online healthy eating advice, which encourages and supports men to eat healthily, is an important information source. However, such information draws on, reproduces, and/or disrupts existing meanings about men and eating. To understand contemporary representations of men and healthy eating, we examined 30 online media articles oriented specifically to this topic. Using reflexive thematic analysis from a social constructionist position, we developed two themes: A lad's looks and lifestyle and Mind over matter: The masculine mindset. These themes together told an overarching story that healthy eating is effectively sold to men by drawing on traditional or hegemonic ideals of masculinity and effectively evoking access to an enhanced masculinity through healthy eating. While these representational practices may sell healthy eating to men, with likely positive health benefits, they also reinforce hegemonic ideals of masculinity which can be problematic from a health perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruby Jelicich
- School of Psychology, Waipapa Taumata Rau/University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Virginia Braun
- School of Psychology, Waipapa Taumata Rau/University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Chan LS, Wu-Ouyang B. Sexting Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Hong Kong and Taiwan: Roles of Sensation-Seeking, Gay Identity, and Muscularity Ideal. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:2373-2384. [PMID: 36849674 PMCID: PMC9970127 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02559-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Prior studies found that sexting was associated with risky sexual activities and that men who have sex with men (MSM) engaged in more frequent sexting than their heterosexual counterparts. Therefore, it is pertinent to understand what factors are associated with sexting among MSM. This study explored the relationships between sensation-seeking, gay identity confusion, and muscularity ideal with sexting behaviors. An online survey was administered to 355 and 448 18-34-year-old MSM in Hong Kong and Taiwan, respectively. While the number of sexting partners and the frequency of sexting were similar across the two regions, they had different associations with psychological factors. In Hong Kong, sensation-seeking was positively related to the number of sexting partners, while in Taiwan, it was positively related to the frequency of sending sexts. In Hong Kong, MSM who were more confused about their sexual orientation had fewer sexting partners. In both regions, MSM holding a stronger muscularity ideal also had more sexting partners. Gay identity confusion and muscularity ideal were associated with sexting under pressure in Taiwan; all three psychological factors concerned were associated with sexting under pressure in Hong Kong. Overall, these results showed that some MSM found sexting to be a sensation-fulfilling activity, but some were vulnerable to sexting under pressure. Counseling services to MSM about their sexual identity and concern for muscularity are needed to prevent them from becoming victims of forced sexting. Finally, the inconsistent results for the Hong Kong and Taiwanese samples indicated the importance of considering regional specificity in sexting research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lik Sam Chan
- School of Journalism and Communication, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.
| | - Biying Wu-Ouyang
- School of Journalism and Communication, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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3
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Why do queer men experience negative body image? A narrative review and testable stigma model. Body Image 2023; 45:94-104. [PMID: 36867966 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Queer men (i.e., men who are not heterosexual; sexual minority men) are disproportionately affected by negative body image - they experience greater body dissatisfaction are more likely to develop eating disorders than heterosexual men. While existing literature has examined individual-level predictors of negative body image for queer men, less is known about why queer men as a group are disproportionately affected by negative body image. By synthesising existing theoretical frameworks, research, policy, and media reporting, this narrative review moves towards an understanding of systemic-level negative body image for queer men. Through the lens of hegemonic masculinity, we explain how systemic experiences of stigma work to inform unattainable appearance standards for queer men, and how these standards then contribute to pervasive negative body image concerns among this community. Next, we describe how systemic stigma works to exacerbate negative health outcomes for queer men with body image concerns. Finally, we present a synthesized model of the processes outlined in this review, articulate testable predictions for future studies, and describe practical implications that could be widely employed to improve body image for queer men. Our review is the first to propose a comprehensive explanation of systemic negative body image for queer men.
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Schmid AT, Payam S. "I Don't Want to Have Sex as a Woman": A Qualitative Study Exploring Sexuality and Sexual Practices of Drag Queens in Germany. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2022:1-21. [PMID: 35285775 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2022.2051117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Drag queens are typically gay men who perform as caricature-like women. They thereby publicly challenge "naturally" binary gender role categories, though it remains unclear how that interplays with their private (e.g., sexual) lives. This study seeks to answer this question by exploring the sexuality and sexual practices of drag queens. Employing a critical realist approach, ten semi-structured interviews were conducted in Germany, with questions focusing on the drag queens' views on sexuality and sexual positioning. By adopting a thematic analysis, three main themes were identified: natural versus artificial identity; advocacy for sexuality; and rejection of heteronormativity. Results suggest that the primary intention of drag queens is to challenge heteronorms, while they regularly adhered to these privately. This illustrates the distinction made by the participants between their "public" persona, an artificial character that lacks sexuality, and their "private" life (e.g., sexual practices), shaped by an "inborn" sexuality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Theresa Schmid
- Chair of Sociology of Diversity, Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Shahin Payam
- Chair of Sociology of Diversity, Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Androgen abuse is more prevalent among gay and bisexual (i.e. sexual minority) men than heterosexual men. We review recent research about androgen abuse in sexual minority men and provide relevant social, cultural, and historical contexts. RECENT FINDINGS Androgen abuse among sexual minority men is shaped by the intersections of sexuality, desirability, masculinity, and race. Muscular male bodies are desired and - in erotic settings especially - prized as literal embodiments of masculinity. Racist stereotypes unjustly diminish the desirability and masculinity of sexual minority men who belong to racial minorities, especially those who are Asian or Black, and the higher rates of androgen abuse among these racial minorities may reflect a compensatory motivation for these diminishments. The historical context for sexual minority men - decades of subjugation alongside stereotypes of masculinity-compromising effeminacy - further complicate the intersections of sexuality with androgen abuse. Harm minimization efforts led by empathetic endocrinologists stand the best chance of achieving positive outcomes for sexual minority men who use androgens. SUMMARY More dedicated research on androgen abuse among sexual minority men is needed as this population requires thoughtfully designed research that is incorporative - at a minimum - of the complexities of sexuality, desirability, masculinity, and race.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Griffiths
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Langdridge D, Flowers P, Riddell J, Boydell N, Teal G, Coia N, McDaid L. A qualitative examination of affect and ideology within mass media interventions to increase HIV testing with gay men garnered from a systematic review. Br J Health Psychol 2021; 26:132-160. [PMID: 32735366 PMCID: PMC7611959 DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Increasing appropriate HIV testing among men who have sex with men (MSM) is crucial to HIV prevention. Mass media interventions are effective in promoting testing, but to date, there has been little examination of their active content. DESIGN We conducted a qualitative analysis of intervention materials (n = 69) derived from a systematic review of mass media interventions designed to improve testing with MSM. METHODS Visual data were analysed for their affective and ideological content using a novel method drawing on concepts from semiotics (i.e., broadly speaking, the analysis of signs). RESULTS Whilst affect was not explicitly theorized or examined in any of the studies, there are clearly identifiable affective elements implicitly at play in these interventions. Four thematic categories of affect/ideology were identified including (1) sexual desire and the 'pornographication' of the gay/bisexual male subject; (2) narratives of romance and love; (3) fear, threat, and regret; and (4) 'flattened' affect. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to examine and detail the affective and ideological aspects of intervention content in this field. Using analytic techniques such as those reported here, in addition to approaches that focus on the manner in which intervention content address more proximal determinants of behaviour, can provide a rich and potentially more useful evidence base to assist with future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darren Langdridge
- School of Psychology and Counselling, The Open University, UK,Correspondence should be addressed to Darren Langdridge, School of Psychology, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes MK7 6AA, UK ()
| | - Paul Flowers
- School of Psychology & Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Julie Riddell
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Nicola Boydell
- Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Gemma Teal
- Institute of Design Innovation, Glasgow School of Art, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Nicky Coia
- NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Lisa McDaid
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland,Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Flave-Novak DE, Coleman JM. Pluralistic Ignorance of Physical Attractiveness in the Gay Male Community. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2018; 66:2002-2020. [PMID: 30307796 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2018.1522811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Researchers have found that a disproportionate percentage of men diagnosed with eating disorders identify as gay, and there is extensive evidence that gay men have significantly more body image concerns than heterosexual men (Bosley, 2011). The current studies investigated whether pluralistic ignorance exists about what is considered attractive in the gay community. It was hypothesized that gay males would privately reject the notion that only a mesomorphic (thin and muscular) body type is attractive, yet incorrectly assume that their peers are attracted primarily to a mesomorphic body type. The studies found evidence for the existence of pluralistic ignorance about what is considered attractive in the gay community. Further, there was evidence for a significant association between pluralistic ignorance and body image concerns, particularly among men who were not in committed romantic relationships.
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Halkitis PN, Singer SN. Chemsex and mental health as part of syndemic in gay and bisexual men. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 55:180-182. [PMID: 29661572 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A commentary is provided on the study reported by Garrett Prestage and his colleagues, which examined the relations between mental health states, non-injection drug use and sexual risk behaviors in a cross-sectional sample of 3,017Australian gay and bisexual men. We provide a summary of the findings in relation to the extant literature on the interconnectedness of these behaviors and health states and interpret the findings in this regard, noting both strengths and limitations. We couch our commentary in a theory of syndemics for considering how these associations may manifest and for informing both research and practice. While the data from this investigation posit risk they also point to strength and suggest the application of a resilience framework for addressing the health needs of gay and bisexual men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perry N Halkitis
- Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Center for Health, Identity, Behavior & Prevention Studies (CHIBPS), RWJ Medical School, Rutgers University, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers University, School of Public Affairs and Administration, Rutgers University, United States.
| | - Stuart N Singer
- Center for Health, Identity, Behavior & Prevention Studies (CHIBPS), United States
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Lemke R, Merz S. The Prevalence and Gratification of Nude Self-Presentation of Men Who Have Sex with Men in Online-Dating Environments: Attracting Attention, Empowerment, and Self-Verification. CYBERPSYCHOLOGY BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL NETWORKING 2018; 21:16-24. [DOI: 10.1089/cyber.2016.0691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Lemke
- Department of Communication, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Simon Merz
- Department of Communication, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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10
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Tollini C. Different portrayals of masculinity in gay bareback pornographic videos: comparing Sean Cody with Treasure Island Media. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/23268743.2017.1358654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Craig Tollini
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL, USA
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11
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Frederick DA, Shapiro LM, Williams TR, Seoane CM, McIntosh RT, Fischer EW. Precarious manhood and muscularity: Effects of threatening men's masculinity on reported strength and muscle dissatisfaction. Body Image 2017; 22:156-165. [PMID: 28802199 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Revised: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The precarious manhood perspective proposes that men respond with aggression when they experience threats to their masculinity. Consistent with this view, we hypothesized that men would represent themselves as stronger and more formidable after their masculinity was threatened. A recent study, however, found that men reported less physical strength when threatened (Hunt, Gonsalkorale, & Murray, 2013). In the current two studies (Ns=193; 450), men were given false feedback about whether they were substantially less masculine (masculinity threatened) or more masculine than average (masculinity reassured). Men reported how much weight they could curl, how many push-ups they could complete, and/or measures of satisfaction with muscularity. In most analyses, threatened men reported greater strength than reassured men. Effects of masculinity threat on muscle dissatisfaction varied by outcome measure. The studies highlight the importance of replication studies, and of using experimental approaches to understand connections between precarious manhood and male body image.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Frederick
- Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, Chapman University, Orange, CA, United States.
| | - Lily M Shapiro
- Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, Chapman University, Orange, CA, United States
| | - Tonicia R Williams
- Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, Chapman University, Orange, CA, United States
| | - Christiana M Seoane
- Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, Chapman University, Orange, CA, United States
| | - Rachel T McIntosh
- Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, Chapman University, Orange, CA, United States
| | - Emily W Fischer
- Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, Chapman University, Orange, CA, United States
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Ravenhill JP, de Visser RO. Perceptions of gay men’s masculinity are associated with their sexual self-label, voice quality and physique. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2017.1343746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Kvalem IL, Træen B, Iantaffi A. Internet Pornography Use, Body Ideals, and Sexual Self-Esteem in Norwegian Gay and Bisexual Men. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2015; 63:522-540. [PMID: 26296007 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2015.1083782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between perception of own appearance, Internet pornography consumption, preferences for pornographic actors' appearance, and sexual self-esteem in gay and bisexual men in Norway. An online survey of 477 gay and bisexual men showed that, despite the prevailing muscular and lean gay body ideal, many men with less ideal bodies also preferred to watch pornographic actors with body types similar to their own. Self-perceived attractiveness, having an ideal body type, and viewing Internet pornography in longer sessions each made a unique contribution to higher self-esteem as a sexual partner. Preferring to watch pornographic actors with ideal bodies was not related to sexual self-esteem. The findings underscore the importance for gay or bisexual men of both self-perceived attractiveness and being athletic or young and fit, for a positive self-evaluation of sexual performance and competence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bente Træen
- a Department of Psychology , University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway
| | - Alex Iantaffi
- b Program in Human Sexuality, Family Medicine and Community Health , University of Minnesota , Minneapolis , Minnesota , USA
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15
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Fussner LM, Smith AR. It's Not Me, It's You: Perceptions of Partner Body Image Preferences Associated With Eating Disorder Symptoms in Gay and Heterosexual Men. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2015; 62:1329-1344. [PMID: 26083837 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2015.1060053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This study explored perceptions of partner body image preferences and symptoms of disordered eating in gay and heterosexual men. Participants were male college students (n = 201; M age = 20.46), and over one third identified as gay. We compared discrepancies between participants' current and ideal body type and participants' current body type and the body type they believed they should have to attract a dating partner. For gay men, the discrepancy between their current body and the body they believed they should have to attract a dating partner was significantly greater than the discrepancy between their current and ideal body types. In gay and heterosexual men, the discrepancy between current body and the body they believed they should have to attract a dating partner predicted eating, shape, and weight concern. Results suggest that perceptions of partner body image preferences may contribute to eating disorder pathology in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Fussner
- a Department of Psychology , Miami University , Oxford , Ohio , USA
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Silvera RJ, Grov C, Stein DJ, Hagerty R, Marmor M. Level of ‘outness’ and pornography use among men who have sex with men: results from an online survey. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2014.984907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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17
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Hald GM, Træen B, Noor SW, Iantaffi A, Galos D, Rosser BS. Does Sexually Explicit Media (SEM) affect me? Assessing first-person effects of SEM consumption among Norwegian men who have sex with men. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2014.984516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Mor Z, Parfionov K, Davidovitch N, Grotto I. Gym exercising patterns, lifestyle and high-risk sexual behaviour in men who have sex with men and in heterosexual men. BMJ Open 2014; 4:e005205. [PMID: 25421336 PMCID: PMC4244394 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2014-005205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lifestyle may be associated with risk behaviours. This study compares gym exercise and sexual risk behaviour between men who have sex with men (MSM) and heterosexual men. The research was based on the assumption that men who become muscular and physically attractive increase their number of sex partners and consequently their risk of HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). SETTING Five gyms in central Tel Aviv, Israel. PARTICIPANTS In 2012, a sample of 182 (48%) MSM and 197 (52%) heterosexual men who train in gyms completed anonymous questionnaires regarding their training, health and sexual behaviours. OUTCOMES Participants in this cross-sectional study who exercised more than the median number of anaerobic training hours were defined as performing intensive anaerobic training (IAT), and those who had performed more than one act of unprotected anal/vaginal intercourse in the preceding 6 months with a partner whose HIV status was unknown were defined as high risk. RESULTS MSM showed a stronger desire to become muscular than heterosexual men, were more likely to perform IAT, and used protein powders or anabolic steroids. They reported that improving their body shape and increasing their self-confidence were their main reasons for training, whereas heterosexual men indicated weight loss and health improvement as the main reasons for training. MSM engaged in riskier sexual behaviour than heterosexual men. Of all the high-risk men, 61.9% (N=70) performed IAT, while 38.1% (N=43) performed moderate anaerobic training (p<0.01). The association between IAT and sexual risk was stronger in MSM than in heterosexual men (p<0.01 vs p=0.05, respectively). The interaction between MSM and IAT in high-risk participants was multiplicative. CONCLUSIONS MSM practised more IAT than heterosexual men, and their interaction between IAT and sexual risk was multiplicative. The MSM community could benefit from a holistic approach to sexual health and its association with body image and IAT. The gym MSM culture demonstrates how internal dynamics and social norms are possible factors driving MSM to high-risk behaviour for HIV/STI. STUDY REGISTRATION The study was approved by the Wolfson Hospital Review Board, Holon, Israel (WOMC-0058-09).
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Mor
- Ramla Health Department, Ministry of Health, Ramla, Israel
| | - K Parfionov
- Eating Disorders Unit, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ben Gurion University in the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - N Davidovitch
- Department of Health Policy, Faculty of Medicine, Ben Gurion University in the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - I Grotto
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ben Gurion University in the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel Public Health Services, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
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Leung KK, Wong HTH, Naftalin CM, Lee SS. A new perspective on sexual mixing among men who have sex with men by body image. PLoS One 2014; 9:e113791. [PMID: 25412266 PMCID: PMC4239110 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0113791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2013] [Accepted: 09/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background “Casual sex” is seldom as non-selective and random as it may sound. During each sexual encounter, people consciously and unconsciously seek their casual sex partners according to different attributes. Influential to a sexual network, research focusing on quantifying the effects of physical appearance on sexual network has been sparse. Methods We evaluated the application of Log odds score (LOD) to assess the mixing patterns of 326 men who have sex with men (MSM) in Hong Kong in their networking of casual sex partners by Body Image Type (BIT). This involved an analysis of 1,196 respondents-casual sex partner pairs. Seven BITs were used in the study: Bear, Chubby, Slender, Lean toned, Muscular, Average and Other. Results A hierarchical pattern was observed in the preference of MSM for casual sex partners by the latter's BIT. Overall, Muscular men were most preferred, followed by Lean toned while the least preferred was Slender, as illustrated by LOD going down along the hierarchy in the same direction. Marked avoidance was found between men who self-identified as Chubby and men of Other body type (within-group-LOD: 1.25–2.89; between-group-LOD: <−1). None of the respondents reported to have networked a man who self-identified as Average for casual sex. Conclusions We have demonstrated the possibility of adopting a mathematical prototype to investigate the influence of BIT in a sexual network of MSM. Construction of matrix based on culture-specific BIT and cross-cultural comparisons would generate new knowledge on the mixing behaviors of MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka-Kit Leung
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Horas T. H. Wong
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Claire M. Naftalin
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shui Shan Lee
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- * E-mail:
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Aggarwal S, Gerrets R. Exploring a Dutch paradox: an ethnographic investigation of gay men's mental health. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2013; 16:105-119. [PMID: 24236852 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2013.841290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Despite the Netherlands' reputation as a world leader with respect to gay rights, homosexual Dutch men have much higher rates of mood disorders, anxiety disorders and suicide attempts than heterosexual Dutch men. Epidemiologists report similar disparities elsewhere in Western Europe and North America. These findings have been the focus of a blossoming psychological literature, inspired by minority stress theory and deploying quantitative methods. Our investigation aims to complement this body of work by adopting an ethnographic approach. Drawing from fieldwork conducted in the Netherlands from 2009 to 2010, we explore sociocultural and contextual factors that have received relatively little attention with respect to gay mental health. In the Netherlands - considered a model for gay equality - how can one understand high rates of psychiatric disorders among gay men? This study points to heteronormativity, complex dynamics involving long-term relationships and processes within gay subcultures as key issues. Notwithstanding their putative socioeconomic, legal and political equality, gay men struggled - at various stages of the life cycle - with internalised norms that they found difficult to fulfil. The desire to embody these ideals, and structural constraints in meeting them, could be potent sources of disappointment and distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay Aggarwal
- a Department of Sociology and Anthropology , University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
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Kahn JS, Goddard L, Coy JM. Gay men and drag: Dialogical resistance to hegemonic masculinity. CULTURE & PSYCHOLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.1177/1354067x12464984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Hegemonic masculinity has been a valuable theoretical approach to understanding ways in which cultures coax members to conform to the requisites of dominant masculinity. However, it has difficulty explaining individual resistances to hegemonic pressures. This paper is one in a series of projects which have identified communities that explicitly defy traditional masculinity norms in order to understand the psychosocial methodologies employed to accomplish resistance within the systemic pressures of hegemonic masculinity. We utilized dialogical self theory as a model to investigate how a gay male drag theater troupe negotiates masculinity in order to understand how that negotiation can help resist dominant discourses of masculinity and form community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack S Kahn
- California School of Professional Psychology, USA
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22
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Ha T, van den Berg JEM, Engels RCME, Lichtwarck-Aschoff A. Effects of attractiveness and status in dating desire in homosexual and heterosexual men and women. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2012; 41:673-682. [PMID: 21979410 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-011-9855-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2010] [Revised: 04/19/2011] [Accepted: 07/03/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The present study examined partner preferences of homosexual and heterosexual men and woman, focusing on attractiveness and status. Homosexual (N=591 men; M age=28.87 years, SD=10.21; N=249 women; M age=33.36 years, SD=13.12) and heterosexual participants (N=346 men; M age=39.74 years, SD=14.26; N=400 women; M age=35.93 years, SD=13.72) rated the importance of attractiveness and social status of potential partners and then, in a vignette test, expressed their desire to date hypothetical potential partners based on photographs that varied in attractiveness and status-related profiles. With ratings, heterosexual men valued attractiveness the most, followed by homosexual men, heterosexual women, and homosexual women. Heterosexual women rated social status as most important. When status profiles were manipulated and accompanied with photographs of faces, the pattern of differences between homosexuals and heterosexuals supported the self-reported results. Overall, homosexual men and women have similar mate preferences to heterosexual men and women by showing more dating desire for attractive and high social status persons. Compared to attractiveness, status played a smaller role in dating desire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thao Ha
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, POB 9104, 6500 HE, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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23
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Gay male attraction toward muscular men: does mating context matter? Body Image 2012; 9:270-8. [PMID: 22342537 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2012.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2011] [Revised: 01/09/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine gay men's perceived attractiveness of male figures based on short-term and long-term partner contexts. A sample of 190 gay adult men rated the attractiveness of line-drawings depicting male figures varying systematically in muscularity and body fat percentage in both short-term and long-term dating contexts. Mixed effects modeling was used to estimate the effects of figure (muscularity and body fat), dating context (short-term vs. long-term), and individual rater characteristics on attractiveness ratings. Results indicated that figure muscularity and body-fat had significant non-linear (i.e., quadratic) relationships with attractiveness ratings, and short-term dating context was associated with more discriminating ratings of attractiveness. Interactions between individual characteristics and figure characteristics indicated that the more available the individual and lower body fat, the more discriminating they were in ratings of attractiveness. The implications for future investigations considering both object and observer characteristics of attractiveness preferences are discussed.
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