“No Strings Attached”: A Qualitative Exploration of MSM Motivations and Risk Factors While on Vacation

• In Event: Sex Communication and Health

Abstract

Interviews with 46 MSM at three tourist locations popular with gay travelers were conducted to determine the motivations and factors associated with engaging in risky sexual behaviors. Using the Health Belief Model (HBM) as a guiding theoretical framework, the findings of the study revealed that the gay friendly, tropical, relaxing environments allowed for MSM to let their guard down and act differently from when they are in their hometown. Various barriers such as substance use and peer pressure affect MSM’s ability to engage in healthier behaviors, with condom negotiation and HIV status disclosure as additional issues that impact the sex practices of this particular population. Discussion of the applicability of HBM and other extant research on casual sexual experiences with traveling to this phenomenon provides insight on how MSM’s self-efficacy toward safer sex practices can be increased via interventions and outreach campaigns.

Authors

• Rowena Lyn Briones, Virginia Commonwealth U

• Candace Parrish, Virginia Commonwealth U

• David Seal, Tulane U

• Eric Benotsch, Virginia Commonwealth U

• Steven Pinkerton, Medical College of Wisconsin

• Jean Redmann, NO/AIDS Task Force

• Josh Fegley, NO/AIDS Task Force

• Salvatore Seeley, Camp Rehoboth

• Derrick Traylor, AIDS Help, Inc.

• Marisa Green, U of Denver

• Anna Cejka, U of Colorado - Denver