Chemsex, Mental Health and Internalized Homonegativity Among Men, Who Have Sex with Men: Results of the German Chemsex Survey

Abstract

Aim: Chemsex means substance use in a sexual context and is associated with men who have sex with men. Typical substances are methamphetamines, GHB/GBL, ketamine and mephedrone. Chemsex is associated with psychological distress. Internalized homonegativity is considered an explanatory approach. The study tests the hypothesis whether chemsex behavior is associated with higher levels of psychological distress and internalized homonegativity and what role georeferenced dating apps play in chemsex users. Methodology: The data collection was conducted as an online survey. Data were collected on depression (PHQ-9), somatization (PHQ-15) and generalized anxiety (GAD 7) and internalized homonegativity (Reaction to Homosexuality Scale). Results: N=280 reported chemsex (CS), N=534 used other substances in a sexual context, N= 170 did not use in a sexual context (NSSK). There were significant differences between CS and NSSK in terms of somatization. CS showed a significantly lower degree of internalized homonegativity. CS used georeferenced dating apps significantly more often. Conclusion: Internalized homonegativity was lowest among chemsex users and does not appear to promote chemsex behavior. Psychological distress was increased. It is possible that social normalization processes, reinforced by the use of dating apps, contribute to the explanation of chemsex.