Sexual Satisfaction, Identity and Sero-adaptation: An Investigation into Personality and Behavioural Correlates of Bareback Identity and Behaviour in Men Who Have Sex with Men

Barebacking, or condomless anal intercourse in the presence of risk of contracting HIV, has emerged as a common phenomenon between men who have sex with men (MSM). The present cross-sectional study investigated psychological correlates of barebacking behaviour and identity, as well as how MSM increase their sexual satisfaction while reducing risk of HIV transmission. Two hundred and fifty-six MSM across Canada and the US were recruited for an online survey. Men who engaged in barebacking were significantly more likely to be HIV-positive, be higher in sexual sensation-seeking, meet sexual partners online, and use substances before and during sex. Self-identified barebackers were also more sexually satisfied than nonbarebackers. Further, MSM who engaged in barebacking were found to use more sero-adaptive strategies, which are harm-reduction techniques to reduce risk of HIV transmission such as strategic positioning and taking PrEP. Barebacking should be framed within the context of recent advancements in biomedical HIVtreatment and prevention.M.A