Kuhns LM, Ramirez-Valles J; International Conference on AIDS (15th : 2004 : Bangkok, Thailand).
Int Conf AIDS. 2004 Jul 11-16; 15: abstract no. WePeC6055.
University of Illinois at Chicago, School of Public Health, Chicago, United States
Background: Evidence suggests that stigma regarding homosexuality is related to sexual risk behavior among men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States, particularly ethnic minorities. For stigmatized individuals, stigma regarding homosexuality can be subdivided into perceived, experienced, and internalized stigma. Each may contribute negatively and differently to sexual behavior. The aim of this study was to test a comprehensive 63-item measure of homosexuality-related stigma among Latino gay men. Methods: 200 Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender individuals in Chicago and San Francisco self-administered a computerized survey instrument. The stigma towards homosexuality scale included 21 items for perceived stigma, 22 items for experienced stigma, and 20 items for internalized stigma. Items were developed from life history interviews with Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender individuals. Reliability and validity of the measures were assessed across the three dimensions of stigma using internal consistency reliability analysis, factor analysis, and convergent and discriminate analysis. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis and Pearson correlations between perceived, experienced, and internalized stigma support the independence of each dimension. The scales also demonstrate high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha.95,.91,.86). Correlation analysis of the stigma scales with suicidal ideation in the past six months, self-esteem, and gay community attachment provide evidence of convergent and discriminate validity. Conclusions: Perceived, experienced, and internalized stigma are three separate dimensions of stigma among Latino gay men. Understanding and accurately measuring these dimensions may further our understanding of the mechanism by which homosexuality-related stigma leads to negative outcomes, including sexual risk behavior, and contribute to improved prevention efforts.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Bisexuality
- Chicago
- Factor Analysis, Statistical
- Hispanic Americans
- Homosexuality
- Homosexuality, Male
- Humans
- Internal-External Control
- Interviews as Topic
- Male
- Minority Groups
- Research
- Research Design
- Risk-Taking
- San Francisco
- Self Concept
- Sexual Behavior
- United States
Other ID:
UI: 102283980
From Meeting Abstracts