The Stigma Effect: The Role of Internalized Racism and Internalized Homophobia in Risky Sexual Behavior Among Black Gay Men

Black gay, bisexual, queer, and same-gender-loving (GBQSGL) men account for less than 1% of US population, yet account for 36% of all new HIV infections. While, Black GBQSGL men experience higher rates of HIV infection compared to other gay, bisexual, and men who have sex with men (MSM) from other racial groups, they are no more likely to report engaging in condomless anal sex (CAS). These findings suggest that one possible explanation is that the context of sexual behavior for Black GBQSGL men may be riskier because of the prevalence of HIV in the community. Furthermore, research suggests that racism and homophobia experienced by Black GBQSGL men because of their social identities may contribute to engaging in CAS. Informed by cultural theory of risk perception and stigma theory, this study examines the role of internalized homophobia and internalized racism on CAS among Black GBQSGL men with respect to the serostatus of their sexual partners. In addition, the study investigates how the relationship between internalized homophobia, internalized racism, and CAS changes depending on the level of perceived masculinity and racial identity of the sexual partners of Black GBQSGL men. This quantitative study of Black GBQSGL men (N=443) consists of a self-administered web-based survey about the sexual histories, drug histories, HIV risk behaviors, and experiences with social stigma of Black GBQSGL men. The results indicate that while neither internalized homophobia nor internalized racism were related to condom use, other demographic characteristics are associated with CAS. These findings explore the role that identity and intersectionality play when it comes to HIV risk behavior among Black GBQSGL men. Furthermore, both social work practitioners and public health interventions must address psychosocial factors associated with HIV in order to reduce the prevalence of HIV among Black GBQSGL men in the United States