Sexual identity, mental health, HIV risk behaviors, and internalized homophobia among black men who have sex with men

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationships between sexual identity, depression, self-esteem, HIV risk behaviors, HIV status, and internalized homophobia in Black men who have sex with men. Results demonstrated a positive relationship between depression, HIV risk behaviors, and internalized homophobia; a negative relationship with self-esteem; and differences in internalized homophobia by HIV status (i.e., positive, negative, or unknown). Counseling recommendations are provided for working with this population.