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Roy V, Fournier C, Thibault S, Tudeau M, Dumont-Blais A. Factors Shaping Gay Men's Experience of Intimate Partner Violence: An Ecological View. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2024; 71:1945-1969. [PMID: 37272893 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2023.2217515] [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: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Gay men are particularly at risk for intimate partner violence (IPV). As regards the prevalence and unique consequences of IPV, many studies seek to understand the specific stressors faced by gay men, but few provide a more comprehensive perspective of IPV-related factors, including gay men-specific, general as well as protective factors. An ecological perspective was used to conduct a qualitative study aimed at identifying the different risk and protective factors related to IPV among gay men. We conducted individual semi-structured interviews with 23 gay men who acknowledge having experienced IPV by another man, as well as two focus groups with practitioners who provide services to this population. Our analysis led to a five-level ecological model, ranging from most proximal (e.g. prior victimization) to distal (e.g. conception of masculinity) factors, and including both general factors (e.g. power dynamics) and factors specific to gay men. Heterosexism emerged as an overarching contributing sociocultural factor. This study sheds new light on mechanisms whereby these factors affect the IPV experience, namely the risk of being victimized; the recognition of IPV victimization; and the response to the IPV experienced. These mechanisms are discussed along with heterosexism-related factors, and implications for research and practices are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Roy
- School of Social Work and criminology, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
| | - Claudia Fournier
- School of Social Work and criminology, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
| | - Sylvie Thibault
- Department of Social Work, Université du Québec en Outaouais, St-Jérôme, Canada
| | - Matis Tudeau
- Department of Psychosociology and Social Work, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada
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2
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The prevalence of cyber dating abuse among adolescents and emerging adults: A meta-analysis. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2023.107726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
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3
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Hertlein KM, Teichert R. The Association between Technology-Mediated Intimate Partner Violence and Stockholm Syndrome. JOURNAL OF COUPLE & RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/15332691.2023.2165583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M. Hertlein
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
| | - RaeAnn Teichert
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
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Fedele E, Juster RP, Guay S. Stigma and Mental Health of Sexual Minority Women Former Victims of Intimate Partner Violence. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP22732-NP22758. [PMID: 35189737 PMCID: PMC9679572 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211072180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Sexual minority women (SMW) are at high risk of experiencing stigma, mental health problems, and being victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). This vulnerability can be explained by the sexual and gender minority stress model, stating that sexual and gender minority people suffer from specific stress factors added to general stressors, leading to more mental health and relationships problems. OBJECTIVE The main goal of this study was to assess the impact of minority stress factors and former IPV victimization on the current mental health of Canadian SMW, as a function of their sexual and gender identity. METHOD In total, 209 individuals identifying as women (M age = 33.9), living in Canada and who lived in a past violent relationship with a woman responded to an online survey. Well-validated questionnaires assessed sexual orientation and gender identity, former IPV behaviors, minority stress factors, depression, and anxiety. RESULTS Hierarchical regressions showed that past psychological aggression was positively associated with anxiety symptoms and past sexual coercion with depressive symptoms. Not being monosexual was also associated more severe symptoms of depression and age was negatively associated with the severity of anxiety symptoms. After controlling for age, race/ethnicity, sexual and gender identity and former IPV victimization, having negative feelings about being a SMW was strongly associated with both depression and anxiety symptoms. CONCLUSION These results provide new information on the interconnected associations between former IPV, minority stress and SMW's mental health. Findings highlight the need to adapt clinical interventions to help buffer against victimization faced by IPV victims who identify as sexual and gender minorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Fedele
- Master’s candidate in Criminology,
School of Criminology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Emma Fedele, Montreal Mental Health
University Research Centre, 7331 rue Hochelaga, Montreal (QC) H1N 3V2.
| | - Robert-Paul Juster
- Assistant Research Professor,
Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Stéphane Guay
- Tenured Professor, School of
Criminology and Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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5
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Wirtz AL, Burns PA, Poteat T, Malik M, White JJ, Brooks D, Kasaie P, Beyrer C. Abuse in the Continua: HIV Prevention and Care Outcomes and Syndemic Conditions Associated with Intimate Partner Violence Among Black Gay and Bisexual Men in the Southern United States. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3761-3774. [PMID: 35661018 PMCID: PMC9561062 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03705-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) has been implicated in HIV acquisition and worse HIV outcomes. Limited research focuses on the experiences of Black gay and bisexual men. Using data from cross-sectional surveys in Baltimore, Maryland, and Jackson, Mississippi, we analyzed the association between IPV victimization and HIV-related outcomes among 629 adult Black gay and bisexual men, among whom 53% self-reported a negative result at last HIV test. 40% of participants reported lifetime physical, sexual, and/or psychological IPV victimization, and 24% past-year victimization. Recent and lifetime IPV were associated with recent clinical diagnosis of STI (adjPrR: 1.44; 95%CI: 1.08-1.92) and ART medication interruptions (adjPrR: 1.59; 95%CI: 1.25-2.01), respectively. Physical IPV was inversely associated with current PrEP use (adjPrR: 0.35; 95%CI: 0.13-0.90). Recent IPV was independently correlated with depression symptomatology (adjPrR: 2.36; 95%CI: 1.61-3.47) and hazardous alcohol use (adjPrR: 1.93; 95%CI: 1.42-2.61), with evidence of interactions. IPV-HIV relationships were intersected by internalized stigma, housing instability, poverty, and lack of insurance. Tailored IPV services are urgently needed for comprehensive HIV services for Black gay and bisexual men in the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L. Wirtz
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD,Corresponding Author
| | - Paul A. Burns
- Department of Population Health Science, John D. Bower School of Population Health, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Tonia Poteat
- Center for Health Equity Research, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Mannat Malik
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Jordan J. White
- School of Social Work, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Parastu Kasaie
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
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6
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Davis DA, Rock A, Santa Luce R, McNaughton-Reyes L, Barrington C. Intimate Partner Violence Victimization and Mental Health Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Living With HIV in Guatemala. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP1637-NP1657. [PMID: 32552467 PMCID: PMC7941092 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520928960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by poor mental health compared to their heterosexual counterparts. One factor that may increase mental health problems among MSM is intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization. The objectives of this study are to (a) describe the prevalence of different forms of IPV victimization experienced by MSM living with HIV in Guatemala City and (b) examine the relationship between IPV victimization and mental health. We analyzed cross-sectional survey data from a cohort of MSM living with HIV in Guatemala City (n = 374) to describe the burden of IPV, including physical, sexual, and emotional IPV. We then examined relationships between lifetime IPV and each form of recent IPV (past 12 months) with self-reported anxiety and depression using multivariable logistic regression. Over a quarter (27.3%) of the participants screened positive for anxiety and nearly one fifth (17.9%) screened positive for depression. Over a quarter of the participants (28.6%) reported ever having experienced any IPV victimization and 8.8% reported having experienced any form of recent IPV. In multivariable analyses, participants who experienced any form of lifetime IPV had roughly twice the odds of experiencing anxiety (OR: 1.86; 95% CI = [1.03, 3.38]) and depression (OR: 2.02; 95% CI = [1.02, 3.99]) compared to those who had not. Participants who experienced recent emotional IPV had over seven times the odds of experiencing anxiety (OR: 7.23; 95% CI = [1.46, 38.85]) compared to those who had not. MSM living with HIV in Guatemala experience a high burden of anxiety, depression, and IPV victimization. Those participants who had experienced lifetime IPV and recent emotional IPV were significantly more likely to screen for anxiety and depression. To improve their mental health, HIV clinics and other health services should provide support for MSM who have experienced IPV victimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk A. Davis
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Amelia Rock
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
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7
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Bosco SC, Robles G, Stephenson R, Starks TJ. Relationship Power and Intimate Partner Violence in Sexual Minority Male Couples. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP671-NP695. [PMID: 32779502 PMCID: PMC7876153 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520916271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Objective: The objective of the present study was to test pathways implied by Disempowerment Theory to predict intimate partner violence (IPV) among men in a same-sex relationship. Background: Sexual minority men in relationships experience rates of IPV comparable with heterosexual women, yet most research on IPV focuses on heterosexual couples. Disempowerment Theory suggests that a range of individual, family-of-origin, and intimate relationship risk factors predict the use of violence to re-establish power in a relationship. Method: Data for the present study were gathered from an online survey completed by sexual minority men currently in a same-sex relationship (n = 339). Analysis of data included two steps: (a) we tested the direct effect of individual, family, and relational predictors on the odds of IPV and (b) we calculated a path model that included relationship power as a link between the predictors (individual, family, and relational) and IPV. Results: In line with Disempowerment Theory, relationship power was negatively associated with IPV. Bivariate analysis indicated an association between childhood sexual abuse and IPV, but childhood sexual abuse was not predictive of IPV through relationship power. Other individual (depression) and relationship-specific (sexual communication and relationship satisfaction) risk factors were associated with IPV indirectly through relationship power. Conclusion: Disempowerment Theory may provide a useful framework for understanding the occurrence of IPV in sexual minority male couples. It may also provide a starting point for the development of multi-component interventions to reduce violence in these couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen C. Bosco
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City
University of New York (CUNY), 695 Park Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Doctoral Program in Health Psychology and Clinical Science,
The Graduate Center of CUNY, 365 5th Ave, New York, NY 10034, USA
| | - Gabriel Robles
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University–New
Brunswick, 536 George ST., New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, and The
Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of
Michigan, 400 North Ingalls Building, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Tyrel J. Starks
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City
University of New York (CUNY), 695 Park Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Doctoral Program in Health Psychology and Clinical Science,
The Graduate Center of CUNY, 365 5th Ave, New York, NY 10034, USA
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Prevalence of Intimate Partner Violence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sex Med 2021; 9:100433. [PMID: 34571326 PMCID: PMC8766270 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Intimate partner violence (IPV) among men who have sex with men (MSM) has become a serious and widespread public health issue, which might result in low quality of life and increase the global burden of diseases. Aim To quantitatively estimate the pooled prevalence of IPV and its specific forms (physical violence, sexual violence and emotional violence) among MSM. Methods Databases of PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CNKI, WANFANG Data, and Weipu (CQVIP) Data were searched for identified studies published between January 1990 and August 2020. Random effect meta-analyses were used to synthesize the pooled prevalence and 95% CIs of IPV. Main Outcome Measures The pooled prevalence of IPV in victimization and in perpetration among MSM. Results A total of 52 studies with 32,048 participants were included for final analysis. The pooled prevalence of IPV was 33% (6,342 of 19,873; 95%CI, 28–39%) in victimization and 29% (1,491 of 5,983; 95%CI, 17 –40%) in perpetration across all recall periods among MSM population. Furthermore, the pooled prevalence of physical violence was 17% (3,979 of 22,928; 95%CI, 14 –20%) and 12% (942 of 9,236; 95%CI, 10 –15%), of sexual violence was 9% (1,527 of 19,511; 95%CI, 8 –11%) and 4% (324 of 8,044; 95%CI, 3 –5%), of emotional violence was 33% (5,147 of 17,994; 95%CI, 25 –40%) and 41% (1,317 of 3,811; 95%CI, 17 –65%) in victimization and perpetration, respectively. Out of all the IPV identified, emotional violence was estimated at the highest level. Conclusion This study demonstrated a high prevalence of IPV both in victimization and perpetration among MSM, and emotional violence was estimated at the highest level out of all IPV forms. Efforts are needed to develop corresponding prevention programs for victims with an intent to increase the accessible availability of health services, and ultimately improve their life quality. Liu M., Cai X., Hao G. et al., Prevalence of Intimate Partner Violence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sex Med 2021;9:100433.
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9
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Hershow RB, Miller WC, Giang LM, Sripaipan T, Bhadra M, Nguyen SM, Vu VD, Bui Q, Ha TV, Go VF. Minority Stress and Experience of Sexual Violence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Hanoi, Vietnam: Results From a Cross-Sectional Study. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:6531-6549. [PMID: 30569781 DOI: 10.1177/0886260518819884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) are highly vulnerable to sexual violence, a known driver of HIV infection. Homosexuality stigma may be a unique risk factor for sexual violence among MSM. In this study, we examine the relationship between homosexuality stigma measures and sexual violence in the last 12 months using a minority stress framework. MSM were recruited using convenience and snowball sampling. Participants completed an interviewer-administered survey and provided blood samples for HIV testing. Bivariable associations were tested between self-reported experience of sexual violence in the last 12 months and homosexuality stigma measures using odds ratios (ORs) produced by Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel Statistics. A logistic regression model for each type of minority stress was built to conduct the multivariable analyses with independent covariates. Of 202 MSM, 29 (14.4%) participants reported experiencing sexual violence in the last 12 months. About one fourth of participants reported experiencing high enacted (55/202; 27.2%), perceived (52/202; 25.7%), and internalized (60/202; 29.7%) homosexuality stigma. In bivariable and multivariable analyses, enacted homosexuality stigma was the only variable consistently associated with experience of sexual violence in the last 12 months (aOR: 3.5; 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.5, 8.4]). Sexual violence and homosexuality stigma are highly prevalent among MSM in Hanoi, Vietnam. MSM-targeted HIV prevention interventions in Vietnam should incorporate violence prevention and homosexuality stigma reduction activities. Longitudinal studies are needed to understand how homosexuality stigma influences sexual violence and other HIV risk behaviors among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Quynh Bui
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Tran Viet Ha
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Vivian F Go
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
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10
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Starks TJ, I Lovejoy T, Sauermilch D, Robles G, Stratton MJ, Cain D, Naar S, Ewing SWF. Developmental Barriers to Couples' HIV Testing and Counseling Among Adolescent Sexual Minority Males: A Dyadic Socio-ecological Perspective. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:787-797. [PMID: 32944842 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03044-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Couples HIV Testing and Counseling (CHTC) is now a standard of care for partnered sexual minority men. While adolescent sexual minority men (ASMM; ages 15-19) face disproportionate HIV risk, the emergent nature of relationships and communication skills may present challenges to accessing and engaging in CHTC. This study utilized qualitative data from 28 ASMM recruited in 4 urban centers in the USA during the formative stage of Adolescent Trials Network study ATN-156. Participants were cis-male, HIV-negative, and in a relationship with a similarly-aged cis-male partner. Thematic analysis indicated low and high levels of commitment were barriers to CHTC. Concerns about caregiver attitudes towards HIV testing were salient. Adolescents' perception of structural barriers highlighted reliance on caregiver resources, which limited access to sexual health services. Prevention programming must address structural barriers to access encountered by adolescents. ASMM in relationships may benefit from programming that includes options for individual and dyadic participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyrel J Starks
- Hunter College of the City University of New York, 695 Park Ave. 611 Hunter North, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Health Psychology and Clinical Science Doctoral Program, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Travis I Lovejoy
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | - Gabriel Robles
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Mark J Stratton
- Hunter College of the City University of New York, 695 Park Ave. 611 Hunter North, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Demetria Cain
- Hunter College of the City University of New York, 695 Park Ave. 611 Hunter North, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Sylvie Naar
- Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
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11
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Brooks D, Wirtz A, Celentano D, Beyrer C, Arrington-Sanders R, Hailey-Fair K. Gaps in science and evidence-based interventions to respond to Intimate Partner Violence among Black gay and bisexual men in the U.S.: A Call for An Intersectional Social Justice Approach. SEXUALITY & CULTURE 2021; 25:306-317. [PMID: 33716496 PMCID: PMC7946129 DOI: 10.1007/s12119-020-09769-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a prevalent, but underrecognized issue among sexual minorities (SM) broadly, but especially among Black Gay and Bisexual Men (BGBM). Over the last several years, acts of IPV among BGBM made national news, drawing attention to the unique ways that IPV plays out within this particular population. Yet, little research has examined the intersections between race and sexuality among BGBM, the lack of culturally responsive IPV services, their support needs, or the barriers that BGBM face when seeking IPV related services. When examined closely, the field of IPV has traditionally focused on cisgender heterosexual white woman as victims and cisgender white men as perpetrators, which has historically impacted the availability and quality of IPV services for other populations. This narrative critique of the IPV movement calls for an intersectional social justice and health equity approach to address the unique and intersectional needs of BGBM who experience IPV. By centering the intersectional needs of BGBM and the role that racism, homophobia, and heteronormative has played in shaping IPV-related services, this article challenges the IPV field to advance a social justice orientation in order to address the unmet needs of BGBM who experience IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durryle Brooks
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrea Wirtz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - David Celentano
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Renata Arrington-Sanders
- Division of General Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kimberly Hailey-Fair
- Division of General Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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12
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Wilkerson JM, Di Paola A, Nieto D, Schick V, Latini DM, Braun-Harvey D, Zoschke IN, McCurdy S. Sexual Violence and Chemsex among Substance-Using Sexual and Gender Minorities in Texas. Subst Use Misuse 2021; 56:2141-2150. [PMID: 34550052 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2021.1975743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Chemsex is the use of methamphetamine or other substances to enhance sexual experiences, and is most often associated with sexual minority men. Within the chemsex literature, questions of sexual violence emerge due, in part, to ambiguity about what constitutes consent within sexualized environments with co-occurring substance use. To understand the context in which sexual violence occurs, data from an online survey of sexual and gender minority Texans were analyzed using bivariate and logistic regression (N = 1273), and qualitative interviews with substance-using sexual minority men from a separate sample were thematically analyzed (N = 22). Among survey participants, 12.8% experienced a form of sexual violence (10.1% experienced intimate partner violence and 7.6% experienced sexual assault). When participants were categorized based on past year substance use and sex party attendance, 48.0% of participants who used drugs and attended sex parties (a proxy for chemsex) experienced sexual violence (41.6% experienced intimate partner violence and 41.0% experienced sexual assault). When variables statistically significant at the bivariate-level were entered into logistic regression models, participants in the chemsex category were 12.5 [95% CI: 6.9, 22.8] times more likely to experience sexual violence. Substance-using sexual minority men experiencing sexual violence describe situations in which consent is difficult to revoke and sexual exploitation is likely to occur. Studies which more deeply explore the relationship between sexual and relationship violence and chemsex among sexual and gender minorities are needed. Particularly, the notion of consent needs further conceptualization in the context of drug use and sex parties. HIGHLIGHTS Measures of recent substance use and sex party attendance were combined to create a proxy measure for chemsex, which is the use of substances to enhance sexual experiences.Substance-using sexual and gender minorities engaging in chemsex were at increased risk of sexual violence.In addition to engaging in chemsex, variables associated with an increased odds of sexual violence among sexual and gender minorities were younger age, having a non-monosexual sexual identity, and receiving a mental health diagnoses.Studies on sexual and gender minorities engaging in chemsex should be developed to further explore sexual exploitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Michael Wilkerson
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Angela Di Paola
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Dominica Nieto
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Vanessa Schick
- Department of Management, Policy and Community Health, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas, USA
| | - David M Latini
- Scott Department of Urology, the Montrose Center, and the Montrose Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - I Niles Zoschke
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sheryl McCurdy
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas, USA
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13
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Ortensi LE, Farina P. Sexual violence victimisation among university students in Italy: a gendered intersectional quantitative approach. GENUS 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s41118-020-00101-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThere is rising attention in Italy and Europe to the occurrence, consequences, and factors related to sexual violence. The focus on women as the primary victims of sexual violence has, however, left data collection and research on young men and sexual minorities in the background. Moreover, young people’s experiences of sexual abuse in the context of their relationships with peers are hardly recognised as a policy concern. The ultimate aim of this paper is to disentangle intersectionalities between gender, migration background, sexual orientation, and sexual experience in shaping the risk of experiencing sexual violence among university students in Italy.We use data from the Sexual and Emotional LiFe of Youths (SELFY) survey carried out in Italy in 2017. Our data confirm that women and foreign-born students are at higher risk of sexual violence. Our data also support previous evidence that bisexual women are at a higher risk of sexual violence victimisation compared with peer students with other sexual orientations. Previous same-sex sexual experience is more relevant than sexual orientation in shaping the risk. The effect is gendered: the risk of sexual violence is lower for women with previous same-sex sexual experience compared with their male peers. The intersection between gender, sexual orientation, and same-sex sexual experience generate specific high-risk profiles whose needs should be targeted by support services.
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14
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Gamarel KE, Darbes LA, Hightow-Weidman L, Sullivan P, Stephenson R. The Development and Testing of a Relationship Skills Intervention to Improve HIV Prevention Uptake Among Young Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men and Their Primary Partners (We Prevent): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2019; 8:e10370. [PMID: 30602433 PMCID: PMC6746068 DOI: 10.2196/10370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2018] [Revised: 08/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (YMSM) continue to be the group most heavily impacted by HIV in the United States. Substantial evidence indicates that up to two-thirds of new HIV infections occur in the context of a main partnership. Couples HIV testing and counseling (CHTC) has been shown to be a promising and effective strategy for increasing HIV prevention uptake among male couples; however, YMSM who are new to relationships may not have yet developed the efficacy, negotiation, and communication skills to navigate HIV testing in their relationship and communicate around developing a prevention plan. OBJECTIVE This study aims to develop and test a relationship skills-focused HIV prevention intervention for YMSM and their partners. The intervention consists of two telehealth-delivered sessions: the first focuses on relationship skills and the second consists of CHTC and prevention planning. Both sessions are attended by both members of the dyad. METHODS This protocol describes the development of the proposed intervention (We Prevent) and pilot test to examine its feasibility and preliminary efficacy. The intervention will include two motivational interviewing-based sessions: session one is a relationship skills-building session, focused on techniques to explore and build communication skills in a relationship, to help YMSM develop and enhance necessary skills for their current and future relationships; the second session is a CHTC session with YMSM and their partners, to help them develop an HIV prevention plan. Through qualitative data collection and a one-arm pilot with YMSM, we will develop and refine a developmentally appropriate relationship skills session as an addition to the current CHTC intervention. We will then conduct a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT), comparing the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy of the adapted two-session telehealth intervention for YMSM versus a control group receiving one session only-a CHTC session delivered via telehealth. RESULTS The We Prevent intervention is designed to increase uptake of HIV prevention, shown through self-reported reductions in condomless sex and increases in knowledge and uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis. In addition, the intervention is designed to increase HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing. STI incidence is examined as a secondary outcome. A cost-input analysis will examine the costs associated with intervention delivery to inform future scale-up of the intervention. CONCLUSIONS Drawing on theory and existing CHTC protocols delivered with video-based counseling, this proposed intervention affords the opportunity to empower YMSM with the skills necessary to communicate with their partners and protect themselves from HIV in their current and future relationships. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03551938; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03551938 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/73omJCz1a). INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR1-10.2196/10370.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi E Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Lynae A Darbes
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Lisa Hightow-Weidman
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Patrick Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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