Association between gay-related development and experiences of external and internal discrimination among Black young MSM

Background: Prior studies have demonstrated both positive and negative consequences related to the timing of gay-related development (GRD) milestones among LGBT populations; however, the effect of these milestones on experiences of external and internal discrimination among young MSM of color have not been fully explored. Method: As part of the evaluation of a community-level HIV-prevention intervention for young Black and White MSM in Philadelphia, we recruited 132 Black MSM ages 18 to 29, at venues and through chain referrals; additionally, we recruited 122 Black MSM from Baltimore as a comparison group. We assessed GRD milestones using age of same-sex attraction, sexual identity and same-sex sexual behavior. Internalized homonegativity was measured with eight items on a scale from 1 to 4 (alpha=.79). Results: Men who identified as gay were more likely to develop earlier compared to bisexually-identified men (p < .001). Men who developed later reported significantly higher levels of internalized homonegativity compared to men who developed earlier (p < .001); however, they reported lower incidences of gay-related discrimination compared to men who developed earlier (p <.04). Conclusions: The timing of GRD milestones is different for gay- and bisexually-identified men. Men who developed later were more likely to report less external discrimination, but higher levels of internalized homonegativity compared to men who developed earlier. Understanding and incorporating the protective and risk factors associated with the timing of GRD milestones into LGBT interventions may be an effective tool to decrease negative beliefs and experiences, and to increase resiliency among young MSM of color.