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Bather JR, Furr-Holden D, Ramirez-Valles J, Goodman MS. Unpacking Public Health Implications of the 2023 Supreme Court Ruling on Race-Conscious Admissions. Health Educ Behav 2023; 50:713-717. [PMID: 37667626 DOI: 10.1177/10901981231198785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
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Ramirez-Valles J, Neubauer LC, Zambrana RE. Inequity Within: A Call for Inclusion of Latina/o/x Scholars in Faculty and Leadership Ranks in Schools and Programs of Public Health. Public Health Rep 2023; 138:386-388. [PMID: 35289648 PMCID: PMC10031822 DOI: 10.1177/00333549221077072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Leah C. Neubauer
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg
School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ruth Enid Zambrana
- Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender
and Sexuality Studies, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
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Ramirez-Valles J, Neubauer LC, Zambrana RE. Inequity Within: A Call for Inclusion of Latina/o/x Scholars in Faculty and Leadership Ranks in Schools and Programs of Public Health. Public Health Rep 2023. [PMID: 35289648 DOI: 10.1177/0033354922107707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Leah C Neubauer
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ruth Enid Zambrana
- Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
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Abstract
The aging of people with HIV (PWH) is a major public health accomplishment and a social and cultural phenomenon. It highlights the human capacity to overcome adversity, the effectiveness of public health strategies (e.g., prevention and treatment), and the new challenges as well. Our societies are not well prepared to address the needs of older PWH and the changes they are creating. Stigma toward HIV, older age, and homosexuality, along with racism, have kept PWH largely invisible, resulting in limited investment in prevention and medical and social services. It is imperative that we develop an effective policy response to address the unique needs of PWH. The purpose of this article is to highlight current knowledge and emerging issues in HIV and aging to serve as a foundation on which to develop policy and program recommendations that will meet the new challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aaron Tax
- Advocacy & Services for LGBT Elders, Sage, New York, NY, USA
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Abstract
Public health has an equity problem. One of the main pillars of our public health system, schools and academic programs of public health, are under the control of white (heterosexual) faculty. They continue to exclude brown, black, and indigenous people from their faculty and leadership ranks. This racism pervades institutional policies and culture and is a major fault in the quest for health equity. In this essay, I center on the experience of Latinx faculty to examine the roots of this inequity and the arguments for diversity and inclusion. I also propose avenues for change and argue for institutional transformation that goes beyond adding people of color to faculty and leadership roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- Health Equity Institute, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA, United States
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric Breton
- École des Hautes Études en Santé Publique, Rennes, France
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Kim SJ, Ramirez-Valles J, Watson K, Allen-Mears P, Matthews A, Martinez E, Odoms-Young A, Daviglus M, Winn RA. Fostering health equity research: Development and implementation of the Center for Health Equity Research (CHER) Chicago. J Clin Transl Sci 2020; 4:53-60. [PMID: 32257411 PMCID: PMC7103474 DOI: 10.1017/cts.2019.415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this article is to describe the process of developing and implementing a transdisciplinary community-based research center, the Center for Health Equity Research (CHER) Chicago, to offer a model for designing and implementing research centers that aim to address structural causes of health inequality. METHODS Scholars from diverse backgrounds and disciplines formed a multidisciplinary team for the Center and adopted the structural violence framework as the organizing conceptual model. All Center activities were based on community partnership. The Center activities were organized within three cores: administrative, investigator development, and community engagement and dissemination cores. The key activities during the first year were to develop a pilot grant program for early-stage investigators (ESIs) and to establish community partnership mechanisms. RESULTS CHER provided more than 60 consultations for ESIs, which resulted in 31 pilot applications over the three application cycles. Over 200 academic and community partners attended the community symposium and discussed community priority. Some challenges encountered were to improve communication among investigators, to clarify roles and responsibilities of the three cores, and to build consensus on the definition and operationalization of the concept of structural violence. CONCLUSION There is an increasing need for local hubs to facilitate transdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement to effectively address health inequity. Building consensus around a shared vision among partners is a difficult and yet important step toward achieving equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sage J. Kim
- University of Illinois at Chicago, School of Public Health, Division of Health Policy and Administration, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Karriem Watson
- University of Illinois at Chicago, School of Public Health, Division of Community Health Sciences, University of Illinois Cancer Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Paula Allen-Mears
- University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alicia Matthews
- University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Nursing, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Angela Odoms-Young
- University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Applied Health Sciences, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Martha Daviglus
- University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Robert A. Winn
- University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Felner JK, Dudley TD, Ramirez-Valles J. "Anywhere but here": Querying spatial stigma as a social determinant of health among youth of color accessing LGBTQ services in Chicago's Boystown. Soc Sci Med 2018; 213:181-189. [PMID: 30099259 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The link between stigma and negative health outcomes is established, yet available research infrequently considers the complex intersection of place, race, and class-based stigma and how this stigma shapes opportunities and health among marginalized groups. Furthermore, scholarship on the relationship between stigma and health often fails to include the voices of the stigmatized themselves. This exclusion renders their lived-experiences hidden and their insight devalued, producing findings with limited validity to promote health equity and social change. In this article, we explore intersecting place, race, and class-based stigmas, or spatial stigma, as a social determinant of health among youth of color (YoC) accessing LGBTQ-specific services in the Chicago's White, middle-class gay enclave, Boystown. Qualitative data were collected within the context of a youth participatory action research study with 11 youth researchers (ages 18-24). Data sources included critical autoethnography, focus groups with current and former LGBTQ service patrons, and individual interviews with LGBTQ service providers. Emergent thematic patterns illuminate how the stigmatization of YoC based on place, race, and class (i.e., being from poor and low-income, racialized South and West sides communities) impacts their opportunities in the neighborhood and access to health-supporting resources. These findings may be useful for practitioners and policy makers who aim to promote health equity among marginalized young people and add to the growing body of literature on health effects of spatial stigma among marginalized communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K Felner
- San Diego State University, Institute for Behavioral and Community Health, Center for Research on Sexuality and Sexual Health, 9245 Sky Park Court, Suite 100, San Diego, CA, 92123, USA.
| | - Terry D Dudley
- Howard Brown Health Center, 4025 N. Sheridan Road Chicago, IL, 60613, USA
| | - Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- San Francisco State University, Health Equity Institute, 1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94132, USA
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Matthews AK, Rak K, Anderson E, Bostwick W, Ramirez-Valles J, Ruiz RA, Macapagal K, Watson KS, Jeremiah RD, Castillo A, Choure W. White Paper from a CTSA Workshop Series on Special and Underserved Populations: Enhancing Investigator Readiness to Conduct Research Involving LGBT Populations. J Clin Transl Sci 2018; 2:193-200. [PMID: 30559982 PMCID: PMC6294459 DOI: 10.1017/cts.2018.317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the significant health disparities experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) populations, few investigators affiliated with NIH-funded Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) programs are conducting research related to this underserved population. We provide recommendations shared during a half-day workshop aimed at increasing researcher readiness to conduct LGBT research. This workshop was presented as part of a series on conducting research with underserved populations offered by the Recruitment, Retention, and Community Engagement Program of the Center for Clinical and Translational Science at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Six LGBT health research experts provided focused presentations. The workshop presentations included a summary of significant health inequality issues, theoretical models relevant to research on LGBT health, best practices in measuring sexual orientation and gender identity, recommendations for recruitment and retention, a discussion of community engagement, and ethical considerations in conducting LGBT research. We provide a summary of recommendations to guide future research, training, and public policy related to LGBT health. The information can increase capacity among CTSA affiliated researchers in conducting research in this special population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin Rak
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Emily Anderson
- Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Wendy Bostwick
- College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Raymond A. Ruiz
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kathryn Macapagal
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Rohan D. Jeremiah
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Amparo Castillo
- Jane Adams College of Social Work, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Wendy Choure
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Ramirez-Valles J. Global Citizen, Immigrant, Survivor, Activist, Gayby Boomer, Academic, and Editor: Dr. Sy and the History of AIDS Education and Prevention. AIDS Educ Prev 2018; 30:267-273. [PMID: 29969307 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2018.30.3.267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In this 30th anniversary of AIDS Education and Prevention, we turn our attention to its founder and editor, Dr. Francisco Sy. I trace Dr. Sy's trajectory, from growing up in a Filipino-Chinese family in Manila to Harvard, Johns Hopkins, South Carolina, and then to the journal. The loss of friends and colleagues to the AIDS epidemic stands out as Sy's driving force behind the journal. AIDS Education and Prevention was also created to fill a tremendous gap in the field: a scientific platform to circulate and discuss research on HIV and AIDS prevention. Over its life course, the content of the journal has mirrored the life of epidemic. Initially, the articles focused on knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors, mostly in the United States. Now, the articles deal with health interventions and pre-exposure prophylaxis, with authors coming from all over the globe. In Sy's opinion, HIV will become endemic, as other infectious diseases have over our history of epidemics, so the role of journals such as AIDS Education and Prevention will remain vital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- Professor and Director of Community Health Sciences at the University of Illinois-Chicago School of Public Health
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12
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Ramirez-Valles J. The New HE&B Editorial Team. Health Educ Behav 2018; 45:309-310. [PMID: 29767561 DOI: 10.1177/1090198118775065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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13
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Ramirez-Valles J. My Journey With Health Education & Behavior. Health Educ Behav 2017; 45:5. [PMID: 29240462 DOI: 10.1177/1090198117749009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Molina Y, Dirkes J, Ramirez-Valles J. Burnout in HIV/AIDS Volunteers: A Socio-Cultural Analysis among Latino Gay, Bisexual Men, and Transgender People. Nonprofit Volunt Sect Q 2017; 46:1231-1249. [PMID: 29422719 PMCID: PMC5798894 DOI: 10.1177/0899764017718632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Understanding factors associated with burnout among HIV/AIDS volunteers has long-ranging implications for community organizations and prevention. Using a cross-sectional sample of Latino gay/bisexual men and transgender people (N=309), we assess potential correlates of burnout identified by multiple theories, including factors associated with volunteering (experiences, motives) and contextual factors (stigma, sense of community). Reporting negative volunteering experiences was positively associated with burnout, while being motivated by personal HIV/AIDS experiences and having a greater sense of GLBT community was negatively related to burnout. The study highlights central challenges and opportunities to retain volunteers from marginalized communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamile Molina
- Address: 1100 Fairview Ave N, M3-B232, Seattle, WA 98102. Ph: 206-667-2428. Discipline: Psychology, Public Health
| | - Jessica Dirkes
- Address: UIC School of Public Health, 679 SPHPI, 1603 West Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60612. Ph: 917-327-8390. Discipline: Public Health/Community Health Sciences
| | - Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- Address: UIC School of Public Health, 679 SPHPI, 1603 West Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60612. Ph: 312-996-6346. Discipline: Public Health
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Morgan E, Skaathun B, Lancki N, Jimenez AD, Ramirez-Valles J, Bhatia R, Masiello-Schuette S, Benbow N, Prachand N, Schneider JA. Trends in HIV Risk, Testing, and Treatment among MSM in Chicago 2004-2014: Implications for HIV Elimination Planning. J Urban Health 2017; 94:699-709. [PMID: 28631059 PMCID: PMC5610127 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-017-0175-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) in the USA continue to have high rates of HIV infection. Increasingly, in addition to behavioral factors, biomedical interventions have been found to play important roles in HIV prevention. In this analysis, we used four waves of cross-sectional data (2004, 2008, 2011, and 2014) from the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance System (NHBS) to examine trends in key behaviors and biomedical interventions among MSM in Chicago (N = 3298). Logistic regression was used to determine changes in behaviors and use of biomedical interventions. Condomless sex increased significantly in waves 3 and 4, compared to wave 1: wave 3 (AOR = 2.07; 95% CI 1.53, 2.78) and wave 4 (AOR = 2.19; 95% CI 1.62, 2.96). Compared to those aged 18-24, older participants were significantly less likely to be routinely tested for HIV: 30-39 (AOR = 0.63; 95% CI 0.48, 0.83), 40-49 (AOR = 0.40; 95% CI 0.29, 0.55), and >50 (AOR = 0.28; 95% CI 0.18, 0.43). Awareness of both post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)(AOR = 3.13; 95% CI 1.22, 8.03) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)(AOR = 10.02; 95% CI 2.95, 34.01) increased significantly in wave 4, compared to wave 3. These results suggest a potential increase in HIV rates among men with main and casual partners and should be monitored closely as PrEP becomes more widespread among MSM of all races and ethnicities in Chicago. This study also suggests that further analyses of the barriers to PEP and PreP uptake among high-risk populations are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Morgan
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Britt Skaathun
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nicola Lancki
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Antonio D Jimenez
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Ramona Bhatia
- Chicago Department of Public Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Nanette Benbow
- Center for Implementation Science, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - John A Schneider
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Ramirez-Valles J. QUEER AGING: THE ARRIVAL OF GAYBY BOOMERS AND THE NEW CHALLENGES OF GERONTOLOGY. Innov Aging 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igx004.2725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J. Ramirez-Valles
- Community Health Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois
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Dirkes J, Hughes T, Ramirez-Valles J, Johnson T, Bostwick W. Sexual identity development: relationship with lifetime suicidal ideation in sexual minority women. J Clin Nurs 2016; 25:3545-3556. [PMID: 27477498 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.13313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES This study draws on a life course perspective to evaluate in a sample of sexual minority women: (1) the relationship between age at reaching sexual identity milestones and risk of suicidal ideation, (2) developmental stages or stages of sexual identity development that represent greatest risk and (3) the relationship between age of reaching milestones and parental support. BACKGROUND Research shows higher rates of suicidal ideation among sexual minority women than heterosexual women. Evidence suggests this is partly accounted for by risk factors including sexual identity development and parental support. However, it remains unclear whether there are stages of particularly high risk. DESIGN This is a cross-sectional study. Data come from a prospective study of sexual minority women that used convenience and respondent-driven sampling methods. METHODS Using logistic regression, we examined associations among age at sexual identity developmental milestones, parental support and suicidal ideation in a large (N = 820), ethnically diverse sample of sexual minority women. RESULTS Compared with women who first wondered about their sexual identity in adulthood, those who first wondered in early, middle or late adolescence had greater odds of lifetime suicidal ideation. Younger age at subsequent milestones (first decided or first disclosed) was not associated with heightened risk of suicidal ideation. Parental support was independently associated with suicidal ideation. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that where one is in the process of identifying as a sexual minority may be more important than age in understanding risk of suicidal ideation in this population. As individuals come to accept and integrate their sexual minority identity risks associated with younger age diminish. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Nurses and other healthcare providers who work with youth should routinely ask about sexual orientation and suicidal ideation and be aware that youth in the earliest stages of coming out as sexual minority may be at particularly high risk of suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Dirkes
- Master of Public Health Program, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Tonda Hughes
- College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Tim Johnson
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Wendy Bostwick
- School of Health Studies, Public Health Program, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, USA
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Ramirez-Valles J, Fergus S, Reisen CA, Poppen PJ, Zea MC. Confronting Stigma: Community Involvement and Psychological Well-Being Among HIV-Positive Latino Gay Men. Hispanic Journal of Behavioral Sciences 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/0739986304270232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Theories of social integration and stress process posit that community involvement may buffer or may compensate the adverse effects of stigma on psychological well-being. In this article, the authors explore this thesis in a stigmatized and seldom studied group of HIV-positive Latino gay men. Specifically, they examine the effects of community involvement in AIDS and gay-related organizations (e.g., volunteerism and activism) and experienced homosexual stigma on three psychological well-being indicators (i.e., self-esteem, depression, and loneliness). The cross-sectional sample includes 155 HIV-positive men living in New York City and Washington, DC. Results suggest that experienced stigma attributed to homosexuality is associated with psychological well-being. Community involvement, however, seems to compensate the association between stigma and depression and loneliness, while buffering the association with self-esteem. Furthermore, community involvement appears to also heighten the perception of stigma.
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Kuhns LM, Ramirez-Valles J. Creating Identity and Community: Latino Gay and Bisexual Men's Motives for Participation in the AIDS Movement. J Community Appl Soc Psychol 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/casp.2233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Kuhns
- Department of Pediatrics at the Feinberg School of Medicine; Northwestern University and Associate Director of the Center for Gender, Sexuality and HIV Prevention at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital
| | - Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- School of Public Health, Community Health Sciences; University of Illinois at Chicago; Chicago IL USA
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Zea MC, Reisen CA, del Río-González AM, Bianchi FT, Ramirez-Valles J, Poppen PJ. HIV Prevalence and Awareness of Positive Serostatus Among Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Women in Bogotá, Colombia. Am J Public Health 2015; 105:1588-95. [PMID: 25602899 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2014.302307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We estimated HIV prevalence among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women in Bogotá, Colombia, and explored differences between HIV-positive individuals who are aware and unaware of their serostatus. METHODS In this cross-sectional 2011 study, we used respondent-driven sampling (RDS) to recruit 1000 MSM and transgender women, who completed a computerized questionnaire and received an HIV test. RESULTS The RDS-adjusted prevalence was 12.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 8.7, 15.8), comparable to a previous RDS-derived estimate. Among HIV-positive participants, 39.7% (95% CI = 25.0, 54.8) were aware of their serostatus and 60.3% (95% CI = 45.2, 75.5) were unaware before this study. HIV-positive-unaware individuals were more likely to report inadequate insurance coverage, exchange sex (i.e., sexual intercourse in exchange for money, goods, or services), and substance use than other participants. HIV-positive-aware participants were least likely to have had condomless anal intercourse in the previous 3 months. Regardless of awareness, HIV-positive participants reported more violence and forced relocation experiences than HIV-negative participants. CONCLUSIONS There is an urgent need to increase HIV detection among MSM and transgender women in Bogotá. HIV-positive-unaware group characteristics suggest an important role for structural, social, and individual interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cecilia Zea
- Maria Cecilia Zea, Carol A. Reisen, Ana María del Río-González, Fernanda T. Biachi, and Paul J. Poppen are with George Washington University, Washington, DC. Jesus Ramirez-Valles is with the University of Illinois, Chicago
| | - Carol A Reisen
- Maria Cecilia Zea, Carol A. Reisen, Ana María del Río-González, Fernanda T. Biachi, and Paul J. Poppen are with George Washington University, Washington, DC. Jesus Ramirez-Valles is with the University of Illinois, Chicago
| | - Ana María del Río-González
- Maria Cecilia Zea, Carol A. Reisen, Ana María del Río-González, Fernanda T. Biachi, and Paul J. Poppen are with George Washington University, Washington, DC. Jesus Ramirez-Valles is with the University of Illinois, Chicago
| | - Fernanda T Bianchi
- Maria Cecilia Zea, Carol A. Reisen, Ana María del Río-González, Fernanda T. Biachi, and Paul J. Poppen are with George Washington University, Washington, DC. Jesus Ramirez-Valles is with the University of Illinois, Chicago
| | - Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- Maria Cecilia Zea, Carol A. Reisen, Ana María del Río-González, Fernanda T. Biachi, and Paul J. Poppen are with George Washington University, Washington, DC. Jesus Ramirez-Valles is with the University of Illinois, Chicago
| | - Paul J Poppen
- Maria Cecilia Zea, Carol A. Reisen, Ana María del Río-González, Fernanda T. Biachi, and Paul J. Poppen are with George Washington University, Washington, DC. Jesus Ramirez-Valles is with the University of Illinois, Chicago
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Ramirez-Valles J. Health Promotion Practice Turns Sixteen. Health Promot Pract 2015. [DOI: 10.1177/1524839914557544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Ramirez-Valles J, Dirkes J, Barrett HA. GayBy Boomers' social support: exploring the connection between health and emotional and instrumental support in older gay men. J Gerontol Soc Work 2014; 57:218-234. [PMID: 24798546 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2013.843225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 09/08/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
We evaluate the association between emotional and instrumental support and perceived health and depression symptoms in a sample of 182 gay/bisexual men age ≥ 55. Perceived health was positively correlated with number of sources of emotional support and depression was negatively associated with instrumental support and health care providers' knowledge of patients' sexual orientation. Depression mediates the connection between providers' knowledge of patients' sexual orientation and perceived health. Number of sources of emotional support varied negatively with age and ethnic minority status, and positively with living with a partner. Instrumental support seemed to be dependent on living with a partner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- a School of Public Health , University of Illinois-Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
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Ramirez-Valles J, Kuhns LM, Manjarrez D. Tal Como Somos/just as we are: an educational film to reduce stigma toward gay and bisexual men, transgender individuals, and persons living with HIV/AIDS. J Health Commun 2014; 19:478-92. [PMID: 24377496 PMCID: PMC3980004 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2013.821555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
In this article, the authors describe the development and dissemination of a film-based educational intervention to reduce negative attitudes toward gay and bisexual men, transgender women, and people living with HIV/AIDS in Latino communities, with a focus on youth. The intervention, Tal Como Somos/Just as We Are, is based on stigma and attribution theories, extensive formative research, and community input. Evaluation findings among educators and school youth suggest the film has the potential to effectively influence attitudes toward gay and bisexual men, transgender women, and people living with HIV/AIDS. The film and intervention are being disseminated using diffusion of innovations theory through community-based organizations, schools, television broadcasting, and film festivals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- a School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
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Ramirez-Valles J. Building Our Collective Vision for Health Promotion Practice. Health Promot Pract 2014; 15:155-6. [DOI: 10.1177/1524839913519106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Ramirez-Valles J, Kuhns LM, Vázquez R, Benjamin GD. Getting Involved: Exploring Latino GBT Volunteerism and Activism in AIDS and LGBT Organizations. J Gay Lesbian Soc Serv 2014; 26:18-36. [PMID: 26451081 PMCID: PMC4594947 DOI: 10.1080/10538720.2013.865577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the community involvement (e.g., volunteerism, activism) of Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender persons (GBT) in two areas: AIDS/GLBT and other general causes. Drawing from volunteering and identity theories, we explore: Who is likely to get involved? What factors affect variation in the levels of involvement? Where do Latino GBT participate and what do they do? Data come from a cross-sectional sample (N=643) of Latino GBT in Chicago and San Francisco. We find high levels of involvement, but primarily focused on AIDS/GLBT. Involvement appears to be driven by income, early involvement, role modeling, and childhood stigmatization of gender nonconformity.
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Ramirez-Valles J, Molina Y, Dirkes J. Stigma towards PLWHA: the role of internalized homosexual stigma in Latino gay/bisexual male and transgender communities. AIDS Educ Prev 2013; 25:179-89. [PMID: 23631713 PMCID: PMC3718259 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2013.25.3.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Stigma negatively affects the health of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Negative attitudes and discriminatory actions towards PLWHA are thought to be based, among other factors, on stigma towards sexual minorities and beliefs about personal responsibility. Yet, there is little evidence to support these linkages and explain how they take place, especially among Latinos. This study analyzes attitudes towards PLWHA among 643 Latino gay/bisexual men and transgender (GBT) people. It examines whether discriminatory actions are predicted by beliefs about personal responsibility and internalized homosexual stigma. Results indicate that Discriminatory Actions towards PLWHA is associated with HIV/AIDS Personal Responsibility Beliefs and Internalized Homosexual Stigma. Further, HIV/AIDS Personal Responsibility Beliefs partially mediates the relationship between Internalized Homosexual Stigma and Discriminatory Actions towards PLWHA. Latino GBT persons who have internalized negative views about homosexuality may project those onto PLWHA. They may think PLWHA are responsible for their serostatus and, hence, deserving of rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1603 W. Taylor, Chicago, IL 60612-4394, USA.
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Abstract
Despite the increased interest in HIV/AIDS stigma and its negative effects on the health and social support of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA), little attention has been given to its assessment among Latino gay/ bisexual men and transgender women (GBT) living with HIV/AIDS. The purpose of this paper is twofold: to develop a multidimensional assessment of HIV/AIDS stigma for Latino GBT living with HIV/AIDS, and to test whether such stigma is related to self-esteem, safe sex self-efficacy, social support, and alcohol, and drug use. The sample included 170 HIV+ Latino GBT persons. The results revealed three dimensions of stigma: internalized, perceived, and enacted HIV/AIDS stigma. Enacted HIV/AIDS stigma comprised two domains: generalized and romantic and sexual. Generalized enacted HIV/AIDS stigma was related to most outcomes. Internalized HIV/AIDS stigma mediated the associations between generalized enacted HIV/AIDS stigma and self-esteem and safe sex self-efficacy. In addition, romantic and sexual enacted HIV/AIDS stigma significantly predicted drug use. Perceived HIV/AIDS stigma was not associated with any outcome. These findings expand the understanding of the multidimensionality of stigma and the manner in which various features impact marginalized PLWHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y. Molina
- Public Health Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - J. Ramirez-Valles
- Community Health Sciences University of Illinois-Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Gray-Stanley JA, Muramatsu N, Heller T, Hughes S, Johnson TP, Ramirez-Valles J. Work stress and depression among direct support professionals: the role of work support and locus of control. J Intellect Disabil Res 2010; 54:749-761. [PMID: 20633203 PMCID: PMC3674855 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2788.2010.01303.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although work stress can impede the capacity of direct support professionals and contribute to mental health challenges, external (i.e. work social support) and internal resources (i.e. an internal locus of control) have been shown to help DSPs cope more actively. We examined how work stress was associated with depression, with a particular focus on the role of resources. METHOD Direct support professionals (n = 323) who serve adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities from five community-based organisations completed a cross-sectional, self-administered survey which measured work stress, work support, locus of control, and depression. RESULTS Multiple regression analyses demonstrated that work stress was positively associated with depression, while resources were negatively associated with depression. In particular, work support moderated the effects of client disability stress, supervisory support lessened the effects of role conflict, and locus of control moderated the effects of workload. CONCLUSIONS Such findings suggest the importance of external and internal resources for staff mental health. This research underscores the need for strong work social support systems and interventions to help staff manage work stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Gray-Stanley
- Northern Illinois University, School of Nursing and Health Studies, Department of Public Health and Health Education, DeKalb, IL 60115-2854, USA.
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Ramirez-Valles J. Navigating partnerships and addressing tough issues in promoting health among GLBTQ youth: an interview with Jesus Ramirez-Valles. Interview by Carmen J. Head . Health Promot Pract 2010; 11:15S-8S. [PMID: 20488964 DOI: 10.1177/1524839910366395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, and questioning (GLBTQ) youth have a number of challenges to face as they develop socially and sexually. Acceptance, discrimination, violence, and a sense of belonging are just a number of issues that complicate the life of GLBTQs as they seek to establish their identity. Many of the challenges that GLBTQ youth are faced with make them more susceptible to practicing risky behaviors that can lead to HIV/AIDS and STDS. When GLBTQ youth of color are living in poor neighborhoods or suffer from some form of racial discrimination, they face even greater challenges.
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Ramirez-Valles J, Kuhns LM, Campbell RT, Diaz RM. Social integration and health: community involvement, stigmatized identities, and sexual risk in Latino sexual minorities. J Health Soc Behav 2010; 51:30-47. [PMID: 20420293 PMCID: PMC3674853 DOI: 10.1177/0022146509361176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to contribute to the conceptual understanding and practical application of social integration theory to health behaviors. We test whether community involvement in AIDS and GLBT organizations moderates the relationship of racial and homosexual stigmata to sexual risk behavior among gay and bisexual men and transgender persons of Latin American origin or descent. We use structural equation modeling to analyze data from a sample of 643 individuals recruited via respondent-driven sampling. Among those not involved in community organizations, homosexual and racial stigmata are related to sexual activity under the influence of alcohol and drugs, which is linked to sexual risk behavior. Among the involved group, the stigmata are not linked to sexual activity under the influence of alcohol and drugs, or to sexual risk behavior. The moderating role of community involvement seems to be more salient in those currently involved than those ever involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- University of Illinois at Chicago, School of Public Health, 1603 W.Taylor (M/C 923), Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Kuhns LM, Vazquez R, Ramirez-Valles J. Researching special populations: retention of Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender persons in longitudinal health research. Health Educ Res 2008; 23:814-25. [PMID: 17974545 PMCID: PMC2574611 DOI: 10.1093/her/cym066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2006] [Accepted: 08/02/2007] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have sought to assess predictors of retention of racial/ethnic or sexual minorities in longitudinal health research. The purpose of this study is to investigate predictors of retention of Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender (GBT) research participants after the baseline interview. Data come from a sample of 643 Latino GBT individuals in two cities (Chicago and San Francisco). We assessed potential predictors of retention (operationalized as successful re-contact) using binary logistic regression of retention on five factors (sociodemographic/health, residential stability, acculturation/attachment to the United States, gay community attachment/stigmatization and research process/design). Our overall follow-up rate was 83 and 80% at 3 and 6 months, respectively. We found that traditional factors (e.g. education, income) were not associated with retention among Latino GBT. The strongest predictors of successful retention were the number of pieces of contact information provided by participants and city of residence (San Francisco). Furthermore, successful methods of contact (i.e. telephone, email) varied by city. We conclude that a largely immigrant urban population of Latino GBT individuals can be successfully followed in longitudinal research. The strong relationship between study design variables and successful retention indicates that collection of thorough contact information is vital to successful follow-up with this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Kuhns
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, 6th Floor (M/C 923), 1603 West Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60612-4394, USA.
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Ramirez-Valles J, Garcia D, Campbell RT, Diaz RM, Heckathorn DD. HIV infection, sexual risk behavior, and substance use among Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender persons. Am J Public Health 2008; 98:1036-42. [PMID: 18445807 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2006.102624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We examined HIV prevalence and the socioeconomic correlates of HIV infection, sexual risk behaviors, and substance use among Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender persons in Chicago and San Francisco. METHODS Data were collected from a sample of 643 individuals (Chicago: n=320; San Francisco: n=323) through respondent-driven sampling and computer-assisted self-administered interviews. RESULTS HIV prevalence in San Francisco (0.325; 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.260, 0.393) was higher than in Chicago (0.112; 95% CI=0.079, 0.163). In San Francisco, HIV prevalence was higher among US-born residents than among those born outside the country; in Chicago, the opposite was true. Heavy use of alcohol was prevalent, especially in Chicago (0.368; 95% CI=0.309, 0.432; San Francisco: 0.154; 95% CI=0.116, 0.192). Drug use and more education were positively correlated and greater age was negatively correlated with unprotected anal intercourse. CONCLUSIONS Heavy alcohol drinking and use of drugs remain a significant public health problem in this population. Drug use was more closely linked to HIV sexual risk behaviors than was heavy drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- University of Illinois at Chicago, School of Public Health, 1603 W Taylor St (M/C 923), Chicago, IL 60612-4394, USA.
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García DI, Gray-Stanley J, Ramirez-Valles J. "The priest obviously doesn't know that I'm gay": the religious and spiritual journeys of Latino gay men. J Homosex 2008; 55:411-36. [PMID: 19042279 PMCID: PMC3717965 DOI: 10.1080/00918360802345149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
In the United States, most adults state that religion plays an important role in their lives and claim a religious affiliation. For gay, bisexual, and transgender persons (GBT), the story is unique because their sexual and gender identity is not accepted by most religions. The purpose of this article is to analyze the role of religiosity in the life course of Latino GBTs raised as Catholics. Data come from 66 life history interviews with Latino GBTs living in Chicago and San Francisco, who grew up as Catholics. We found a religious trajectory that mirrored participants' developmental stages. During childhood, religion was inculcated by the family, culture, and schools. In adolescence, many experienced a conflict between their religion and their GBT identity, and in adulthood, they reached a resolution. Most participants abandoned Catholicism to join other religions or spiritual groups that they perceived to be welcoming. We found participants engaging in a remedial ideological work to reconcile their religious values and their identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia I García
- Community Health Sciences at the University of Illinois-Chicago School of Public Health, Chicago, IL 60612-4394, USA
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Bruce D, Ramirez-Valles J, Campbell RT. Stigmatization, Substance Use, and Sexual Risk Behavior among Latino Gay and Bisexual Men and Transgender Persons. Journal of Drug Issues 2008. [DOI: 10.1177/002204260803800111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Following the minority stress model as a framework, we examine the associations between racial and homosexual stigma, substance use, and sexual risk behavior among a respondent-driven sample of Latino gay and bisexual men and male-to-female transgender persons (GBT) in Chicago and San Francisco (N = 643). We use structural equations to test such a model and disentangle the possible effects of the different stigmas and their corresponding dimensions (i.e., perception, experience, internalization). Findings revealed distinct pathways to sexual risk. Two are typified by experienced homosexual stigma and internalized racial stigma via multiple drug use, and two are characterized by experienced racial stigma and internalized homosexual stigma via alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, USA.
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Ramirez-Valles J, Heckathorn DD, Vázquez R, Diaz RM, Campbell RT. From networks to populations: the development and application of respondent-driven sampling among IDUs and Latino gay men. AIDS Behav 2005; 9:387-402. [PMID: 16235135 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-005-9012-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
One of the challenges in studying HIV-risk behaviors among gay men is gathering information from a non-biased sample, as traditional probability sampling methods cannot be applied in gay populations. Respondent-Driven Sampling (RDS) has been proposed as a reliable and bias-free method to recruit "hidden" populations, such as gay men. The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of RDS to sample Latino gay men and transgender persons. This was carried out when we used RDS to recruit participants into a study that investigated community involvement on HIV/AIDS sexual risk behaviors among Latino gay and bisexual men, and transgender (male-to-female) persons in Chicago and San Francisco. The population coverage of RDS was then compared to simulated time-location sampling (TLS). Recruitment differences were observed across cities, but the samples were comparable. RDS showed broader population coverage than TLS, especially among individuals at high risk for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- Community Health Sciences, University of Illinois-Chicago, School of Public Health, Chicago, IL 60612-4394, USA.
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Ramirez-Valles J. Translocal and gender dimensions of frame alignment: Community mobilization and recruitment processes among women community health workers in Mexico. Critical Public Health 2003. [DOI: 10.1080/0958159032000114435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Abstract
Community involvement (e.g., volunteerism, activism) in HIV/AIDS may be an effective prevention strategy. Through involvement in HIV/AIDS-related organizations, individuals may develop a positive sense of themselves, maintain HIV preventive behaviors, and create community change. In this paper we examine the types of activities, motives, consequences, and deterrents to community involvement among Latino gay men using both community organizations' and Latino gay men's perspectives. Data come from an exploratory study in Chicago. It included telephone interviews with HIV/AIDS organizations (N = 62) and in-depth interviews with Latino gay men (n = 6 volunteers; n = 7 no volunteers). We found that organizations have few Latino volunteers and that the deterrents to involvement are stigma of HIV/AIDS and homosexuality, racism, and apathy. Among the positive consequences, we found an increase in self-esteem, sense of empowerment, and safer sex behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, 60612-4394, USA.
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Abstract
This paper presents a conceptual framework of the protective effects of community involvement in HIV/AIDS-related groups and organizations for HIV sexual risk behavior among gay and bisexual men. The framework delineates hypotheses for future research, and provides a guide for prevention programs based on the active and direct involvement of participants, particularly communities of color. The framework (1) argues that community involvement moderates the association between three socio-structural risk factors (i.e. poverty, homophobia and racism) and sexual risk behavior; (2) posits that community involvement in HIV/AIDS reduces sexual risk behavior via its effects on four mediating factors (i.e. peer norms, self-efficacy, positive self-identity and alienation); (3) proposes five socio-cultural barriers to and facilitators of community involvement in HIV/AIDS (i.e. motives for participation, poverty, acculturation, stigma and perceived opportunities); and (4) addresses burnout as one potential negative consequence of community involvement in HIV/AIDS-related organizations and groups. The conceptual framework advances the understanding of HIV sexual risk behavior by integrating both its socio-structural risk and protective factors. It contributes to health education by specifying how interventions based on collective action (e.g. community involvement) for social change may be effective in generating healthy behaviors at individual and community levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ramirez-Valles
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois-Chicago, 60612-4394, USA
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Ramirez-Valles J. "I was not invited to be a [CHW] ... I asked to be one": motives for community mobilization among women community health workers in Mexico. Health Educ Behav 2001; 28:150-65. [PMID: 11265826 DOI: 10.1177/109019810102800203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Despite health educators' revitalized interest in community mobilization for health, little attention has been given to participants' motives for mobilizing. The purpose of this article is to contribute to the understanding of community mobilizing by analyzing the motives for mobilization among a group of women community health workers (CHWs), members of a community-based organization in Mexico. The study is guided by critical feminist and social constructivist theories. It aims at identifying the categories of motives used by women CHWs and exploring how these motives are created while presenting women's own voices. Women's motives fall into four categories: getting out, serving, learning, and women's betterment. These motives blend personal andpublic motives. The analysis suggests that mobilization for health may be enhanced by addressing both the personal satisfaction of individuals and the accomplishment of public goods. The study of motives may be useful for the recruitment and retention of participants in community mobilization efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ramirez-Valles
- Community Health Sciences, University of Illinois-Chicago School of Public Health, 60612-7259, USA.
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Ramirez-Valles J. Women, the welfare state, and their transnational dimension: the case of Mexico's community health worker programs. Int J Health Serv 1999; 29:597-621. [PMID: 10450549 DOI: 10.2190/uk2v-c4j4-k3pj-3hcn] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Feminist scholarship has shown that the welfare state is not only a set of agencies and policies to distribute services, but is engaged in the promotion of normative concepts of the female through its structural arrangements and the content of its programs and policies. Yet, this scholarship conceptualizes the state as a national entity and free from external influences, ignoring its transnational dimension. States are embedded in an international network consisting of other states, international agencies, and corporations that influence the practices and discursive frame of the welfare state. To uncover the process by which the welfare state institutionalizes and promotes female identities and the transnational dimension of this process, the author analyzes the case of community health worker programs conducted by the Mexican state from the 1970s to the early 1990s. The analysis corroborates the gender practices of the welfare state and suggests a reconceptualization that takes into account the transnational dimension of the state practices. The implications for feminist theories on the welfare state and for analyses of health promotion policies and programs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ramirez-Valles
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago 60612-7259, USA
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Abstract
A major premise of health education is that people can and do change their lives. Personal changes and the events that precipitate them are often told in a form of narrative and are accompanied by a new sense of oneself. This research draws on the study of narratives and women's community activism to explore processes of personal change in women's activism as community health workers in Mexico. The research is a case study based on in-depth semistructured interviews. Two major categories of narratives of change emerged: change of the self and little or no change. Within these categories, changes are defined as development of the self, becoming a new and different person, actualization of the self, and little or no change. Although women experience significant changes, their changes are based on normative female identities. Implications for the study of narratives and personal change in health education are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ramirez-Valles
- Community Health Sciences, University of Illinois-Chicago School of Public Health, 60612-7259, USA.
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Ramirez-Valles J. Promoting health, promoting women: the construction of female and professional identities in the discourse of community health workers. Soc Sci Med 1998; 47:1749-62. [PMID: 9877345 DOI: 10.1016/s0277-9536(98)00246-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Community health worker (CHW) programs are implemented in the third world and among racial minorities in the U.S. by public health professionals with the goal of improving people's access to basic health services. There is a shared view that women's roles as mothers make them effective CHWs because most health practices are located within the realm of the family. The objective of this paper is to inquire how and what concepts of woman are constructed and promoted in CHW programs. Viewing CHW as a discourse, I examine literature on CHWs using a critical feminist perspective and insights from narrative and rhetorical analyses. I argue that CHW positions women living in the third world and non-white Hispanic women in the U.S. as the "other" woman. The natural attributes of this other woman include mother, care giver, oppressed, child-like, and victim of patriarchy, religion, poverty, and diseases. These attributes are used to define categories of the female such as "the third world woman" and "Hispanic woman". These categories, in turn, define two unnamed opposite categories: "the first world woman" and "the public health professional". I conclude that CHW is a colonizing discourse and that public health professionals and feminists need to practice reflexivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ramirez-Valles
- School of Public Health, Community Health Sciences, University of Illinois-Chicago, 60612, USA
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Ramirez-Valles J, Zimmerman MA, Newcomb MD. Sexual risk behavior among youth: modeling the influence of prosocial activities and socioeconomic factors. J Health Soc Behav 1998; 39:237-253. [PMID: 9785696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Sexual activity among high-school-aged youths has steadily increased since the 1970s, emerging as a significant public health concern. Yet, patterns of youth sexual risk behavior are shaped by social class, race, and gender. Based on sociological theories of financial deprivation and collective socialization, we develop and test a model of the relationships among neighborhood poverty; family structure and social class position; parental involvement; prosocial activities; race; and gender as they predict youth sexual risk behavior. We employ structural equation modeling to test this model on a cross-sectional sample of 370 sexually active high-school students from a midwestern city; 57 percent (n = 209) are males and 86 percent are African American. We find that family structure indirectly predicts sexual risk behavior through neighborhood poverty, parental involvement, and prosocial activities. In addition, family class position indirectly predicts sexual risk behavior through neighborhood poverty and prosocial activities. We address implications for theory and health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ramirez-Valles
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois-Chicago 60612-7259, USA.
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Ramirez-Valles J. Book Review: Community Organizing and Community Building for Health. Health Educ Behav 1998. [DOI: 10.1177/109019819802500211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Ramirez-Valles
- Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Illinois-Chicago
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Zimmerman MA, Ramirez-Valles J, Suarez E, de la Rosa G, Castro MA. An HIV/AIDS prevention project for Mexican homosexual men: an empowerment approach. Health Educ Behav 1997; 24:177-90. [PMID: 9079577 DOI: 10.1177/109019819702400206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In this intervention, participants design and implement an HIV/AIDS prevention project for Mexican homosexual men. The intervention is consistent with, and contributes to, empowerment theory because it enhances collective action, provides opportunities to develop knowledge and skills, creates needed resources, and includes shared control with professional and among participants. The intervention described provides an illustration of an empowering process and distinguishes itself from empowerment outcomes. An evaluation of the project is also described, but the outcomes were HIV/AIDS-related behaviors rather than psychological empowerment of the participants. The results suggest that the participants' HIV/AIDS knowledge and preventive behavior improved when compared to individuals who did not participate in the intervention. In addition, the intervention generated community change initiated by participants. Implications for designing interventions using an empowerment approach are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Zimmerman
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor 48109-2029, USA.
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Zimmerman MA, Ramirez-Valles J, Washienko KM, Walter B, Dyer S. The development of a measure of enculturation for Native American youth. Am J Community Psychol 1996; 24:295-310. [PMID: 8795263 DOI: 10.1007/bf02510403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Enculturation is the process by which individuals learn about and identify with their ethnic minority culture. It is distinguished from acculturation which refers to the process by which an ethnic minority individual is assimilated into the majority culture. Three studies with Native American youths are reported that describe the development of a measure of enculturation for Native American youths. Development of a measure of enculturation provides a foundation upon which to build a body of literature that focuses on strengths in a youth's life rather than on deficits. Results of the first study (n = 120), a confirmatory factor analysis, indicated that cultural affinity, native American identity, and family involvement in traditional activities adequately represent the construct of ecnulturation. The study also provides some convergent validity for this interpretation. The second study examines factor invariance for enculturation among youths with data from over 2 years (n = 69). The factor structure was similar across time. The third study replicates the factor structure and validity analyses with a new sample (n = 42). Usefulness of the measure for assessing protective factors and stressing ethnicity over simple assessment of race categories is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Zimmerman
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Washington Heights, Ann Arbor 48109-2029, USA
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