Perspectives on Sexual Health, Sexual Health Education, and HIV Prevention From Adolescent (13-18 Years) Sexual Minority Males

Introduction: Adolescent sexual minority males (ASMM) are at disproportionate risk of HIV infection. The purpose of this study was to assess ASMM's attitudes about sexual health, barriers/facilitators to accessing HIV prevention, and actual versus ideal interactions for receiving sexual health care and information. Method: Two online and two in-person focus groups were conducted with ASMM from across the United States. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. Results: Twenty-one racially diverse ASMM participated (average age = 16.4 years). Online focus groups were superior for reaching the target population. Four themes emerged: 1: identity formation and sources of support, 2: challenges to obtaining sexual health information, 3: attitudes/beliefs about sex and sexual behaviors, and 4: barriers to HIV prevention. Discussion: These findings illustrate current gaps in sexual health knowledge, as well as barriers and facilitators to obtaining sexual health information, sexual health care, and affirming education and support for ASMM.

Automated summary

This study identified the attitudes of ASMM towards sexual health, barriers and facilitators to accessing sexual health information, and the disparities between actual and ideal interactions for receiving sexual health care and information. The findings highlighted the current gaps in sexual health knowledge among ASMM and the barriers and facilitators to obtaining sexual health information and care.