JournalTOCs

Sexuality Research and Social Policy
Journal Prestige (SJR): 0.752

Citation Impact (citeScore): 2
Number of Followers: 7

Hybrid journal (It can contain Open Access articles)
ISSN (Print) 1868-9884 - ISSN (Online) 1553-6610
Published by Springer-Verlag

[2468 journals]

Sexual Double Standard: a Cross-Cultural Comparison of Young Adults
Spanish, Peruvian, and Ecuadorian People
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  Abstract: Introduction The sexual double standard (SDS) implies men and women are being evaluated differently as regards sexuality. To date, no cross-cultural comparisons have been made regarding the prevalence of the various forms that adherence to SDS takes. This research work describes differences among Spain, Peru, and Ecuador in the prevalence of three different types of adherence to the SDS (egalitarian, man-favorable, and woman-favorable), which refer to sexual freedom and sexual shyness in 18–25-year-old youths. Method A sample of 2229 heterosexual adults (34.2% Spanish, 33.7% Peruvian, and 32.1% Ecuadorian) answered the Sexual Double Standard Scale. Participants were collected between September 2019 and March 2021. Results The results showed differences between countries, both in the total sample and in the sample of men and women separately, and in conducts related to sexual freedom and sexual shyness. The most prevalent typologies were as follows: the egalitarian typology in Spain, the man-favorable typology in Peru and Ecuador, and the woman-favorable typology in Ecuador. Conclusion These findings conclude that the socio-structural conditions of how resources are distributed between men and women could be related to the prevalence of different gender-related sexual norms. In those contexts in which the gender-egalitarian sexual norm prevailed, resources were more equally distributed between men and women. Policy Implications It highlights the role of the socio-structural conditions in the distribution of resources between men and women and the differences between men and women, to understand the cross-cultural differences in the prevalence of SDS adherence types.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Queer Politics of a Pandemic: LGBTQ + People’s Conceptions of
COVID-19’s Politicization
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  Abstract: Introduction Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer (LGBTQ+) people have historically been at the center of contentious political debates in the United States. The pandemic’s divisive politicization has created societal stress in both hindering mitigation efforts and exacerbating social marginalization. Research has examined relatively privileged groups’ COVID beliefs; however, explorations are needed into ideological processes among those marginalized by COVID, such as LGBTQ+ people, to provide a holistic framework of queer politics. Methods Data come from in-depth interviews conducted with 43 LGBTQ+ people collected between October 2020 and January 2021. Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants from a larger survey on pandemic experiences. Results Through the “underdog” framework,” LGBTQ+ people held strong convictions to science-informed political beliefs, which informed their critiques of inadequate government leadership. Participants also engaged in ideological resistance to harmful individualistic rhetoric through an emphasis on collectivism. The divisive politicization of the pandemic shaped numerous social stressors that LGBTQ+ people adapted to using various strategies to maintain their mental health. Conclusions Participants viewed American individualism and Christian nationalism as a public health threat that led to resistance to health and safety measures putting other people at risk. Findings support the underdog theory, with LGBTQ+ people elevating evidence-based science and disadvantaged groups’ wellbeing by emphasizing social empathy as a collective good that supports community health. Policy Implications Findings can inform policies and community programming that promotes equity across all social identities through the depoliticization of public health and centering LGBTQ+ people’s capacity for resistance and resilience.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
“It’s a win for the clinic, it’s a win for the frontline, but, most
importantly, it’s a win for the client”: Task Shifting HIV Prevention
Services from Clinicians to Community Health Workers in Ontario, Canada
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  Abstract: Introduction Despite strong evidence from low- and middle-income countries supporting the use of task shifting to provide quality, cost-effective HIV-related health services, this strategy has been adopted less widely in high-income countries such as Canada. Methods In 2020, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 19 clinicians (e.g., psychologists, nurses, physicians) and 14 community health workers (CHWs) in Ontario to examine their perspectives on the prospect of shifting HIV/STBBI testing services and PrEP in Ontario, Canada. Interviews were transcribed and then analyzed using content analysis. A community consultation with key stakeholders was also performed to assess the validity of the findings. Results There was substantial agreement between clinicians and CHWs with respect to shifting specific tasks related to HIV/STBBI testing and PrEP. In particular, most participants felt that rapid HIV testing could and should be provided by CHWs and that ASOs could be ideal sites for clients to obtain and use self-testing kits for STBBIs. Most respondents agreed that CHWs have the skills and expertise required to perform most non-clinical services related to PrEP (e.g., pre-counselling, follow-up, case management). The co-location of clinicians and CHWs could help support the development of task shifting initiatives. Conclusion Findings indicate that there is enthusiasm among both clinicians and CHWs with respect to shifting HIV prevention services. Creative solutions are required to have a meaningful impact on HIV incidence in this population. Policy Implications With adequate training and supervision, non-regulated CHWs should be allowed to provide certain HIV prevention services such as rapid HIV testing. A provincial, publicly funded program for PrEP is recommended.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Preferences for Gender Affirming Treatment and Associated Factors Among
Transgender People in Sweden
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  Abstract: Introduction Gender affirming surgery of primary and/or secondary sex characteristics has been shown to alleviate gender dysphoria. A descriptive snapshot of current treatment preferences is useful to understand the needs of the transgender population seeking health care. This study aimed to describe preferences for gender affirming treatment, and their correlates, among individuals seeking health care for gender dysphoria in Sweden after major national legislative reforms. Methods Cross-sectional study where transgender patients (n = 232) recruited from all six Gender Dysphoria centers in Sweden 2016–2019, answered a survey on treatment preferences and sociodemographic, health, and gender identity-related information during the same time-period. Factors associated with preferring top surgery (breast augmentation or mastectomy), genital surgery, and other surgery (e.g., facial surgery) were examined in univariable and multivariable regression analyses in the 197 people without prior such treatment. Main study outcomes were preferences for feminizing or masculinizing hormonal and surgical gender affirming treatment. Results The proportion among birth assigned male and assigned female patients preferring top surgery was 55.6% and 88.7%, genital surgery 88.9% and 65.7%, and other surgery (e.g., facial surgery) 85.6% and 22.5%, respectively. Almost all participants (99.1%) wanted or had already received hormonal treatment and most (96.7%) wished for some kind of surgical treatment; 55.0% wanted both top and genital surgery. Preferring a binary pronoun (he/she) and factors indicating more severe gender incongruence were associated with a greater wish for surgical treatment. Participants with somatic comorbidities were less likely to want genital surgery, while aF with lacking social support were less likely to want internal genital surgery, in the multivariable analyses. Conclusions In this sample of Swedish young adults seeking health care for gender dysphoria, preferences for treatment options varied according to perceived gender identity. Policy Implications The study findings underline the need for individualized care and flexible gender affirming treatment options. The role of somatic comorbidities should be further explored, and support should be offered to transgender people in need. There is an unmet need for facial surgery among aM.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Intersectional Challenges: How (Not) to Study and Support LGBTQs with a
Migration Background
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  Abstract: Introduction This article reports on a government-funded research project exploring the problems experienced by LGBTQs with a migration background living in Belgium, to guide future policies aiming to support this target group and to increase acceptance of LGBTQs within their ethno-cultural communities. Methods In 2019 and 2020, in-depth interviews were conducted with 22 LGBTQ individuals belonging to Moroccan, Turkish and Congolese communities in Belgium, complemented by 10 expert interviews with persons who have professional, activist and/or personal expertise in relation to this intersection. Results Across the three communities, several thresholds and problems were identified in relation to the acceptance of homosexuality, rigid gender roles, and intersectional experiences of racism and exclusion. To address these problems, the participants and experts cautioned against the use of “shock tactics” or a one-sided focus on culture and religion. Instead, they proposed government support of bottom-up initiatives taken within the communities, increased social and media representation, and education on sexual diversity at schools. Conclusions The limited acceptance of LGBTQs is not only connected to particular cultures and religions. To increase acceptance, policies should support changes from within rather than working top-down. Policy Implications To be effective and supported by the targeted communities, future policies as well as government-funded research should involve people from the targeted communities from the start, following the principle “nothing about us without us.”
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Mind the Gap: Internet Pornography Exposure, Influence and Problematic
Viewing Amongst Emerging Adults
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  Abstract: Introduction Characterised by both exploration and engagement in risky behaviours, late adolescence and emerging adulthood are periods of particular vulnerability to dysregulated behaviours. One such behaviour less well explored is that of problematic Internet pornography (IP) viewing, despite viewing explicit online material becoming increasingly pervasive and normative. Method In 2020, 385 (270 females, 110 males) Australian undergraduate students (aged 17–25 years) completed an online survey assessing exposure to IP, affective and cognitive responses to IP, IP-related sexual beliefs, self-assessed problematic IP viewing and key psychological vulnerability factors. Correlational and regression analyses were utilised to assess the relationships between variables. Results Most male (57.3%) and female (33.7%) respondents recalled their first exposure to IP as occurring between 12 and 14 years; however, 28.2% of males and 23.7% females recalled their exposure as occurring between 9 and 11 years, and a small proportion were exposed even earlier. Higher IP viewing frequency, positive affective responses to IP at current exposure, elevated sexual impulsivity and the endorsement of IP-related sexual beliefs were all found to be associated with self-assessed problematic IP viewing. Conclusions Findings suggest that both person and situational factors may contribute to problematic IP viewing patterns. IP viewing may also be shaping the sexual beliefs and behaviours of some viewers. Policy Implications There is little consensus on the factors that may lead IP viewing to become problematic, which limits the ability of clinicians to identify more susceptible individuals. These findings suggest that in addition to dysregulation factors such as sexual impulsivity, dissociation and depression, affective responses to IP and IP-related beliefs may also be important to consider when assessing for whom IP viewing may become problematic.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Relationship Between Sexual Behaviors with Non-committed Relationship
Partners and COVID-19 Restrictions and Notification Rates: Results from a
Longitudinal Study of Gay and Bisexual Men in Australia
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  Abstract: Introduction COVID-19 related lockdowns have impacted the sexual activity of gay and bisexual men (GBM). We investigated trends in sexual behaviors and the COVID-19 context in which they occurred (COVID-notification rates and jurisdictional restrictions) to understand changes in the duration and severity of periods of lockdown on the sexual behavior of Australian GBM. Methods In an online, prospective observational study of 831 GBM from May 2020 to May 2021, we investigated associations between changes in sexual behavior among Australian GBM, lockdowns, and COVID-19 notification rates through weekly surveys from May 2020 to May 2021. Results The mean age was 45.71 years (SD: 13.93). Most identified as gay (89.0%) and 10.2% were living with HIV. There was an overall increase in the mean weekly number of non-committed relationship partners (0.53–0.90, p < 0.001). The state of Victoria experienced a significant extended COVID-19 outbreak, accompanied by severe lockdown restrictions. In response, Victorian men’s partner numbers shifted three times, while elsewhere there was an overall gradually increasing trend. Conclusions Less severe outbreaks with shorter lockdown periods, involving fewer and geographically contained, COVID-19 notifications were accompanied by non-significant changes in sex with non-relationship partners than more severe outbreaks over extended periods and larger geographical areas.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
LGBTQI + Refugees’ and Asylum Seekers’ Mental Health: A
Qualitative Systematic Review
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  Abstract: Introduction LGBTQI + refugees and asylum seekers experience enormous distress during their lifespan. Ill-effects of socio-cultural stigma, systemic violence, and forced migration due to sexual orientation, gender identity or expressions, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) are not their only challenge. The cumbersome asylum process in host countries negatively affects their mental health and well-being. The objective of this systematic review was to retrieve, critically evaluate and synthesize the evidence from qualitative data relating to mental health conditions of LGBTQI + forced migrants before, during, and after resettlement. Methods Seven Databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Taylor, and Francis online as well as MEDLINE, PSYNDEX, PsycINFO, and PsycArticles via EBSCO) were queried with relevant search terms between January and April 2020. To be included in the analysis, studies had to be qualitative and published in peer-reviewed journals between 2002 and 2020. Of 410 records, 23 of them met the inclusion criteria. Two low-score records were removed after critical evaluation with the CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Program). Data from 21 studies were extracted. Qualitative meta-aggregation was implemented as the data synthesis strategy. Results Four emerged themes were linked to distress: Violence/discrimination, mental healthcare access barriers, asylum system challenges, and unaddressed mental health difficulties. Coping strategies and support resources were two other relevant themes across and within the data. Conclusions Experiencing violence and deprivation of equitable mental health services in countries of origin due to SOGIESC status, difficulties in the asylum process, limited care in detention centers, cultural and financial barriers in host countries, and finally, discrimination based on multiple marginalized identities explain how the mental health condition of LGBTQI + forced migrants is inextricably intertwined with structural discrimination. Policy Implications Host countries need to ensure migrant and local communities are aware of state equality and LGBTQI + anti-discrimination policies. Service providers in both asylum and health systems need to be trained for affirmative, culturally sensitive, and intersectional approaches in their practice and avoid treating queer clients against their expectations and stereotypes. Also, they should address the authentic accounts of resilience and resistance of LGBTQI + forced migrants.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Sex Workers’ Everyday Security in the Netherlands and the Impact of
COVID-19
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  Abstract: Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare and exacerbates the existing insecurities of sex workers. This paper asks: What are sex workers’ everyday experiences of (in)security' And: How has the COVID-19 pandemic influenced these' Methods We engage with these questions through collaborative research based on semi-structured interviews carried out in 2019 and 2020 with sex workers in The Hague, the Netherlands. Results Revealing a stark mismatch between the insecurities that sex workers’ experience and the concerns enshrined in regulation, our analysis shows that sex workers’ everyday insecurities involve diverse concerns regarding their occupational safety and health, highlighting that work insecurity is more multi-faceted than sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Widespread employment and income insecurities for sex workers are exacerbated for transwomen and male sex workers. Their legal liminality is enabled not only by the opaque legal status of sex work in the Netherlands, but also by the gendering of official regulation. The COVID-19 pandemic made visible how the sexual and gender norms that informally govern sex workers’ working conditions intersect with hierarchies of citizenship, complicating access to COVID-19 support, particularly for migrant sex workers. Conclusions Sex work regulation in the Netherlands leaves workers in a limbo—not without obligations and surveillance, yet, without the full guarantee of their labour rights. Policy Implications To effectively address sex workers’ insecurities, a shift in regulation from its current biopolitical focus to a labour approach is necessary. Besides, public policy and civil society actors alike need to address the sex industry’s harmful social regulation through hierarchies of gender, sexuality and race.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Attachment and Relationship Satisfaction Among Gay Men: the Mediating Role
of Well-Being
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  Abstract: Introduction Gay men form and maintain romantic relationships in the face of stigma and discrimination, negatively impacting their well-being. Early experiences with caregivers likely influence well-being and may later impact the satisfaction felt in the romantic relationships of gay men. Method Following the 2017 legalization of same-sex marriage in Australia, 198 self-identified gay men were surveyed between June and July2019, to examine the role of well-being in the association between attachment style and relationship satisfaction. Results Results revealed securely attached men demonstrated higher levels of well-being and relationship satisfaction. Men with higher levels of anxiety and avoidant attachment had lower well-being and relationship satisfaction. Well-being partially mediated the relationship between attachment style and relationship satisfaction. Conclusions Results highlight the significant contributing role of well-being among gay men in the association between attachment processes and the satisfaction felt in their romantic relationships. Our findings suggest that insecure attachment styles are associated with reduced well-being and may place gay men at risk for poorer relationship outcomes. Policy Implications Our findings support the idea for researchers and clinicians to be mindful of the influence of attachment processes on well-being when working with gay male couples. Ongoing practitioner training should include a focus on these predictors of relationship quality for gay men. As social and public policy continues to move forward, it will be important to monitor how marriage equality evolves and the impact it continues to have on same-sex relationship outcomes.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
“There’s no reason to do monogamy”: Evidence for and Characteristics
Associated with a Strong Desire for Consensual Nonmonogamy
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  Abstract: Introduction Consensual nonmonogamy (CNM) is a form of relationship practiced by many despite widespread stigma against it. In this study, we explore evidence of strong, persistent desire for CNM among some individuals, and look for commonalities among these individuals. Method Between February 2019 and June 2020, we conducted qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 51 US adults who had practiced CNM for between 3 and 50 years, recruited via community contacts and snowball method. Participants reported a broad diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities; 62.7% reported European/white ancestry. We conducted thematic analysis to examine evidence of strong, persistent desire for CNM and common characteristics and experiences among participants. Results We describe 7 sub-themes that suggest a strong desire for CNM, such as pursuing CNM early in life, experiencing difficulties in attempts at monogamy, and describing one’s desire for CNM as enduring or unchangeable. We then describe 9 characteristics and experiences that were common among participants, such as a preference for autonomy, not experiencing categorical distinctions among relationships, desiring to make life plans with multiple adults, and exposure to communities whose norms do not assume monogamy. Conclusions Our data indicate a pattern of desires, life choices, and self-perceptions suggesting that some individuals strongly desire and persistently pursue CNM (whereas others appear to be comfortable with both CNM and monogamy). Policy Implications Our results suggest that some individuals consistently desire and pursue CNM relationships, and therefore would benefit from efforts toward destigmatization and reduction of institutional disadvantage against the practice of CNM.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Condom Use and Social Capital Among Filipinx Transgender Women and
Cisgender Men Who Have Sex with Men (Trans-WSM and Cis-MSM): a Structural
Equation Modeling
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  Abstract: Introduction The HIV crisis in the Philippines is driven largely due to condomless sex among communities of transgender women and cisgender men who have sex with men (trans-WSM and cis-MSM, respectively). Condom use could be promoted by increasing social capital in these communities because social capital might increase one’s condom use self-efficacy. Methods We performed mediational analysis using a survey data (June 2018–May 2019) with 318 Filipinx trans-WSM and cis-MSM. Results In our final standardized structural equational modeling adjusted for gender, age, location, and income, higher social capital was significantly associated with self-efficacy in condom initiation/negotiation (β = 0.47, p < 0.001), and self-efficacy in condom initiation/negotiation was strongly associated with condom use (β = 0.61, p < 0.001). Moreover, we found that self-efficacy in condom initiation/negotiation fully mediated the relationship between social capital and condom use (β_before mediation = 0.16, p < 0.05 vs. β_after mediation = 0.01, p > 0.05). Conclusion Future HIV prevention interventions should consider promoting social capital among communities of trans-WSM and cis-MSM in the Philippines.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
“That’s kind of like the big struggle right now is can we get
PrEP'”: Facilitators and Barriers to PrEP Uptake Among Active Duty Gay
and Bisexual Men
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  Abstract: Introduction The US Military is experiencing a rise in HIV infections among gay and bisexual men (GBM) serving on active duty, yet little is known about this population’s uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), an evidence-based intervention for HIV prevention. This mixed methods study examines the facilitators and barriers to PrEP access and uptake among active duty GBM. Methods Active duty GBM were recruited using respondent-driven sampling (2017 and 2018). Participants (n = 93) answered quantitative survey questions on PrEP interest and accessibility. Another set of participants (n = 10) discussed their PrEP experiences in qualitative interviews. We conducted descriptive and bivariate analyses of quantitative data, while qualitative data were analyzed using structural and descriptive coding techniques. Results Approximately 71% of active duty GBM indicated interest in accessing PrEP. A greater proportion of those who disclosed (vs. did not disclose) their sexual orientation to their military doctor discussed (p < 0.001) or accessed (p = 0.017) PrEP. The following qualitative themes emerged: (1) providers’ negative views and knowledge gaps related to PrEP; (2) lack of a systems approach to PrEP access; (3) confidentiality concerns; and (4) reliance on peer networks for PrEP guidance and support. Conclusions Study results indicate that active duty GBM are interested in and want to discuss PrEP with their military doctors, but gaps in providers’ PrEP-related knowledge and skills, as well as mistrust in the military health care system, remain. Policy Implications A system-wide approach that addresses confidentiality concerns and removes procedural barriers to PrEP access is recommended to improve PrEP uptake in this population.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Attitudes Toward HIV-Positive Status Disclosure Among U=U-Aware Sexual and
Gender Minority Individuals in the USA: a Consensual Qualitative Research
Approach
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  Abstract: Introduction The U=U (i.e., undetectable equals untransmittable) campaign is founded upon biomedical advancements that have positioned HIV as a manageable condition with effectively zero risk of transmission. In spite of these developments, attitudes of sexual and gender minority populations regarding the necessity of seropositive status disclosure remain unexamined. Methods The current study analyzed qualitative data regarding the necessity of seropositive status disclosure from 62 sexual minority men as well as transgender and gender non-conforming individuals who have sex with men from 2020 to 2021. Results The majority of participants believed disclosure to be necessary and invoked several social and structural factors that informed their attitudes. Participants cited HIV criminalization laws, the ethics of non-disclosure, and disclosure as a means of educating sex partners when appraising the necessity of disclosure. Participants also presented concerns regarding U=U efficacy and HIV stigma. Conclusions Findings indicate that the disclosure of seropositive status to sex partners is still important to U=U-aware sexual and gender minority individuals. The majority of the study sample, irrespective of HIV status, believed seropositive status disclosure was necessary in advance of sex. Policy Implications Findings suggest opportunities for public health messaging to remediate concerns about U=U efficacy, combat misinformation, and clarify out-of-date information on HIV criminalization.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Sexual Behavior Change Among Gay and Bisexual Men During the First
COVID-19 Pandemic Wave in the United States
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  Abstract: Background After decades of navigating HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, gay and bisexual men are responding to new and uncertain risks presented by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic by adapting their sexual behavior. Methods This paper uses data from a national sample of 728 gay and bisexual men collected from April 10 to May 10, 2020, to examine changes to sexual behavior in response to the first wave of the pandemic in the USA. We also assess whether behavior modifications are associated with exposure to statewide public health measures, including Stay-at-Home orders. Results Sexual minority men report significant changes to their sexual behavior and partner selection during the first wave. Nine out of 10 men reported having either one sexual partner or no sexual partner in the last 30 days at the time of interview, a decrease compared to just before the pandemic for nearly half of men surveyed. Reporting no sexual partners in the last 30 days was significantly predicted by increased exposure to a Stay-at-Home order. Sexual minority men also reduced interactions with casual partners, increased no-contact sexual behaviors (e.g., masturbation and virtual sex), and engaged in new strategies to reduce their risks of infection from partners. HIV-positive men were particularly likely to adopt strategies including avoiding casual partners and avoiding public transportation to meet sexual partners. Conclusion Sexual minority men’s behavior changes during the first wave may have reduced the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on their communities. Despite substantial changes in sexual behavior for most men in our sample during the initial first wave, we identify some concerns around the sustainability of certain behavioral changes over time and nondisclosure of COVID-19 symptoms to partners.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Sexuality, Breast Cancer Survivorship, and Script Theory
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  Abstract: Introduction With new diagnostic technologies and treatment modalities available, more people than ever are living as cancer survivors in the USA, a large percentage of whom are breast cancer survivors. These new technologies and treatments have side effects that impact women’s sexual health during treatment and throughout long-term survivorship from the disease. The purpose of this research was to understand the intersection of breast cancer survivorship and sexuality, including expressions and performance of gender, relationships, and sexual behavior in women in the Midwestern region of the USA. Methods This study used semi-structured interviews, conducted in 2015 and 2016 with 21 Midwestern women at least 6 months post-treatment. Following traditions of narrative and phenomenological qualitative research, the women’s own stories were used to explore the impact that survivorship, diagnosis, and treatment may have on a woman’s sexual self. Results Overarching themes included the role of care-giving, impact of the loss of breast tissue, and survival from breast cancer. These themes represent sexual scripts used specifically by women breast cancer survivors to understand and navigate their sexuality, including gender perceptions and performances, experiences of sexual pleasure and satisfaction, and their romantic and sexual relationships. Conclusions New scripts need to be encouraged with survivors and introduced into the social worlds that surround these individuals. Such scripts would include the importance of self-care throughout life and the importance of an individual’s quality of life beyond mere survival. Policy Implications More and better education needs to be provided to both healthcare providers and patients with regard to sexual side effects. Policies around standard of care must be adapted to go beyond survival.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Trans Masculinity: Comparing Trans Masculine Individuals’ and Cisgender
Men’s Conformity to Hegemonic Masculinity
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  Abstract: Introduction Masculinity and masculine norms are still relevant in the current social context. Literature showed that some masculine norms could be considered protective health buffers, while traditional masculinity has negative consequences on men’s behaviors, relationships, and health. Methods In the present study, we aimed at investigating trans masculine and cisgender men’s levels of adherence to different dimensions of hegemonic masculinity. A total of 200 participants (100 trans masculine people and 100 cisgender men) took part in the study. Results Results exhibit that trans masculine individuals showed higher scores than cisgender men on the dimensions of emotional control and self-reliance, whereas cisgender men showed higher endorsement of norms such as heterosexual self-presentation and power over women. Conclusions Results are discussed in light of the minority stress model and masculinity threat theory. Policy Implications The present work should act as a reminder of the pressure that trans masculine people may feel to conform to certain aspects of hegemonic masculinity. This may have the adaptive function of protecting them from the discrimination and threats that they expect from others.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Predictive Effect of Romantic Attachment and Difficulties in Emotional
Regulation on the Dyadic Adjustment
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  Abstract: Introduction Romantic relationships are a central aspect of most people’s lives, with their quality being conditioned by multiple factors. Stemming from previous investigations, which have identified important associations between several relational variables, this quantitative cross-sectional study sought to determine predictive models of the quality of relationships, assessed through dyadic adjustment reported individually, as a result of romantic attachment and difficulties in emotional regulation. Methods The participants, from a community sample of 507 adults in a relationship for at least 6 months, answered, between 2017 and 2020, a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Romantic Attachment Questionnaire (QVA), the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), and the Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale (RDAS). Results The results, obtained through multiple linear regression analysis and mediation studies, have shown that greater difficulties in regulating emotions allow for predicting losses in relational quality and differentiating among increasing levels of insecurity in romantic attachment patterns. Romantic attachment has been shown to explain 34% of the variability in the quality of relationships, with higher levels of insecurity predicting greater difficulties in dyadic adjustment. The positive influence of trust and the negative influence of ambivalence on the quality of dyadic adjustment were evident, as was their mediating role in the relationship between regulatory difficulties and relational adjustment. Conclusions These results organized an aggregating comprehensive model of the studied variables, establishing a starting point for future innovative approaches to research and intervention in relational dynamics.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
Circumcision Status Regret and Satisfaction: Findings of a US National
Survey
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  Abstract: Introduction There is an increasing movement to suggest the practice of newborn circumcision causes significant physical and emotional harm. Previous studies have provided evidence that circumcision can decrease the transmission of certain sexually transmitted infections, though there is limited research on satisfaction and regret pertaining to circumcision status. We aim to examine personal comfort, regret, overall, and sexual satisfaction of males based on their circumcision status. Methods We utilized Amazon.com “Mechanical Turk” survey marketplace on July 2018 to survey men age > 17 years regarding their circumcision status. We then analyzed the data using bivariate statistics and linear logistic regression models. The outcomes of this survey were regret towards circumcision status, the desire to change one’s status, perceived sexual pleasure and satisfaction, medical complications related to one’s status, and comfort with others seeing one’s penis. Results A total of 406 men were surveyed, and 332 were circumcised. No significant difference between circumcised and uncircumcised men pertaining to regret, desire to change their status, and sexual satisfaction was identified. On average, uncircumcised men believed their status conferred a mild increase in sexual pleasure, and circumcised men felt more comfortable with sexual partners and others seeing their penis. There was no difference in medical complications between the groups. Conclusions This study provides objective data to incorporate into counseling parents regarding circumcision to facilitate shared decision-making. This is the first study to look closely at attitudes towards circumcision status in men circumcised before adulthood in the USA. Policy Implications These findings should be incorporated into shared decision-making between parents and health care providers, as well as taken into consideration when developing professional guidance regarding circumcision in newborn males.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01
The Demographic and Psychological Moderators to the Associations Between
Geosocial Networking Apps (GSNA) Use and Risky Sexual Behaviors Among US
Young Adults
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  Abstract: Introduction Previous literature has established positive associations between geosocial networking apps (GSNA) use and risky sexual behaviors. The current study seeks to confirm such associations and further explore the potential demographic and psychological moderators of such relationships. Methods The current study conducted a cross-sectional survey with young adults (n = 680) in the USA. We tested the main and interaction effects of age, sex, relationship status, Greek affiliation, sociosexuality, sexual compulsivity, and sexual sensation seeking, while controlling for race, sexual orientation, and college student status. Results The results showed that GSNA use was significantly associated with having three or more sexual partners, having more hookups, and having condomless sex within the last 6 months. Furthermore, moderated regression models showed that age, being male, being single, being in a Greek organization, sociosexuality, sexual compulsivity, and sexual sensation seeking moderated the relationships between GSNA use and different risky sexual behavioral outcomes. The GSNA use was not associated with having an STI in the last year, potentially due to under-testing and under-reporting of STI. Conclusions GSNA use has magnifying effects on risky sexual behaviors among younger single males. The relationships between GSNA and risky sexual behaviors might be more prominent among certain individuals, such as those who are sociosexually unrestricted, sexually compulsive, and sexual sensation seekers. Policy Implications Some risk-reduction messages promoting condom use and regular STI testing could be strategically placed on GSNA to target those susceptible GSNA users, an effective strategy for GSNA primarily used among men who have sex with men.
  PubDate: 2023-06-01