Sexual Safety and Risk Taking Among African American Men Who Have Sex With Women: A Qualitative Study

This qualitative study examined factors that influence safer sex behaviors and HIV/AIDS risk among African American men. Participants were 28 African American men who have sex with women who were between the ages of 18 and 35 and who were recruited from a local university and community organizations in a southeastern metropolitan area. Men participated in interviews or focus groups in which they discussed several topics relevant to safe and risky sexual behavior. Consensual qualitative research was used to determine themes that emerged within the specific domains of (a) reasons for using or not using condoms, (b) communication with partners about safer sex, (c) alcohol and drug use during sex, and (d) the impact of religion and spirituality on sexual behavior. Themes that emerged from the focus groups and interviews for reasons for using condoms included pregnancy prevention, sexually transmitted infections, and sexual relationships with outside partners. Men described their decision not to use condoms as being influenced by their relationship status and the heat of the moment. The potential influence of male gender role socialization on sexual decision making is discussed.