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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Gal Frenkel, MPH¹, Scott Haverstock, MSW², and Cindy Vargo, BA². (1) Research, Evaluation, and Planning Services, Pima Prevention Partnership, 2525 E. Broadway, Suite 100, Tucson, AZ 85716, (520) 624-5800, gfrenkel@thepartnership.us, (2) Body Positive, 1144 E. McDowell Road, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85006

Background: the Arizona Man-to-Man (M2M) seminar is a two-day comprehensive human sexuality health initiative targeting men who have sex with men (MSM). M2M was initially developed by the University of Minnesota, and is currently offered in Phoenix, Arizona. Objective: participants in this session will familiarize themselves with the Arizona M2M seminar intervention, its community based implementation, components, results, and challenges. Methods: fifty-four MSM completed a pre/post or retrospective survey. Of those, eighteen MSM attended follow-up focus groups. MSM were assessed for changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors concerning their sexuality and sexual health after attending the M2M seminar. Findings: participants demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in internalized homonegativity, and improvements in reported attitudes concerning self esteem, sexual and emotional health. Participants also reported increased knowledge and commitment to healthier and safer sexual behaviors. In focus groups many participants confirmed these positive changes by reporting real life experiences and interactions. Conclusions: 1) with modifications, this research initiative was successfully implemented in a community-based setting. 2) MSM seminar participants report positive knowledge and attitude changes concerning sexuality and sexual health immediately after attending the seminar. 3) many MSM seminar participants report positive changes in attitudes and behaviors concerning their sexuality and sexual health within a year of attending the seminar.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the challenges associated with implementing a research initiative in a community-based setting
• Describe the challenges many MSM confront
• Identify benefits associated with attending the M2M seminar
• Recognize the value of a comprehensive seminar for MSM

Keywords: Sexuality, Behavior Modification

Related Web page: www.azman2man.org

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation