Contextualizing Community-Based Participatory Research on HIV among MSM: A study of a decentralized Midwestern community

BACKGROUND: In regions where MSM-specific resources are decentralized, community-based participatory research (CBPR) methods can build on existing community relationships to access hard-to-reach individuals. Using a CBPR approach, data on sexual compulsivity, sexual partner-seeking, and sexual behavior were collected from MSM to explore patterns of venues where men reported meeting sexual partners.

METHODS: Researchers and community partners collectively determined research questions, recruitment methods, and instruments assessing demographic, behavioral, and perceptual sexual health constructs. Participants were recruited from nine sites identified by community members: five gay bars, two bathhouses, Internet chatrooms and a local “House Ball” event.

RESULTS: After facing initial recruitment challenges, 504 MSM completed the survey. Participants were predominantly White, seronegative, and well-educated. 12.3% of men were categorized as higher in sexual compulsivity (n = 62). Having had sex with someone a participant met in a cruising venue such as the Internet, or parks, and/or bathhouses was predictive of higher sexual compulsivity scores. Those higher in sexual compulsivity were more likely to make sexual contacts in all three venues (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: Results may indicate patterns of partner-seeking among MSM in regions where MSM- specific resources are lacking. Interventions targeting MSM in similar areas should consider venue-specific interventions and similar messages across venues. CBPR methods offered a means of exploring the situational sexual context of venues frequented by MSM, which have helped target community-specific intervention messages.