Resilience among Black Gay/Bisexual Male Adolescents: Implications for Health Promotion Interventions

Black gay/bisexual male adolescents (BGBMA) are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS and other negative health outcomes. Although previous research has focused on health risks, information regarding how these youth have remained resilient in the face of oppressive forces is critical in order to develop health promotion interventions. The purpose of this study was to explore resilience among BGBMA.

Data are from the initial phases of a community-based participatory research project focused on developing an HIV prevention intervention for BGBMA. Findings from two mixed-methods studies of gay/bisexual male youth (study 1: qualitative n=63, quantitative=200; Study 2: qualitative =56, quantitative=200) were re-analyzed during 5 monthly meetings of 7 BGMA (ages 19-24) who were members of the study's Youth Action Board, and 2 quarterly meetings of 10 individuals representing community agencies serving BGBMA (Community Provider Action Board).

A phenomenological framework guided data analysis. Nine primary intrapersonal resiliency strategies were reported: 1) changing patterns of self-sabotage, 2) developing self-awareness, 3) increasing self-esteem, 4) changing maladaptive reactions to oppression, 5) using positive activities to cope with stress, 6) maintaining a positive attitude, 7) developing career, educational and life goals, 8) learning resiliency strategies from older gay men, 9) exploring Black gay history. Six primary interpersonal resiliency strategies were reported: 1) building community with other Black gay men, 2) finding mentors, 3) participating in social justice activities, 4) changing social circles to improve life outcomes, 5) creating alternative “family” networks, 6) finding supportive friendship networks.

The findings illustrate that BGBMA demonstrate resilience across multiple dimensions. Intrapersonal resilience strategies focused primarily on changing cognitions and self-directed behaviors, whereas interpersonal resilience strategies focused on building community, seeking support, and providing support to others. Future interventions for BGBMA should work to enhance the resilience of these youth through creative intervention approaches focused on developing and maintaining various resiliency strategies.