| Title | Social support, psychological vulnerability, and HIV risk among African American men who have sex with men. |
| Publication Type | Journal Article |
| Year of Publication | 2015 |
| Authors | Saleh, Lena D., Jacob J. Van Den Berg, Christopher S. Chambers, and Don Operario |
| Journal | Psychology & health |
| Pagination | 1-29 |
| Date Published | 2015 Nov 20 |
| ISSN | 1476-8321 |
| Abstract | Previous research has suggested a need to understand the social-psychological factors contributing to HIV risk among African American men who have sex with men (MSM). We conducted individual in-depth interviews with 34 adult African American MSM to examine their personal experiences about: (i) sources of social support, (ii) psychological responses to the presence or absence of social support, and (iii) influences of social support on sexual behaviors. The majority of participants described limited positive encouragement and lack of emotional support from family, as well as few meaningful personal relationships. Feelings of isolation and mistrust about personal relationships led many participants to avoid emotional intimacy and seek physical intimacy through sexual encounters. Findings highlight a need for multi-level interventions that enhance social support networks and address the social-psychological, emotional, and interpersonal factors that contribute to HIV risk among African American MSM. |
| Alternate Journal | Psychol Health |
