Exploring the "bisexual bridge": a qualitative study of risk behavior and disclosure of same-sex behavior among black bisexual men.
OBJECTIVE
We explored factors influencing sexual behavior, disclosure of same-sex behavior, and condom-use practices among Black bisexual men.


METHODS
We conducted semistructured interviews with 38 Black men in Atlanta, Georgia, who reported having had oral, vaginal, or anal sex with both men and women in the prior 6 months.


RESULTS
Participants described approaches to disclosure of same-sex behavior as part of a complex decisional balance influenced by both situational and individual factors and ranging from full disclosure to total secrecy. Influences on sexual behavior and condom-use practices included: (1) type of relationship, (2) gender-specific considerations, (3) perceptions of comfort or trust, and (4) fear of disease or pregnancy.


CONCLUSIONS
Disclosure of same-sex behavior was not a major influence on the sexual behavior and condom-use practices of the Black bisexual men in our study, who demonstrated heterogeneity in approaches to sexual behavior, disclosure of same-sex behavior, and condom-use practices. Additional research is needed to assess the social determinants of sexual risk for this population. Future HIV-prevention efforts should include initiatives to encourage accuracy in risk assessment and in taking sexual histories in clinical settings.
Malebranche
David J
DJ
Emory University School of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, 49 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive, Suite 413, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA. dmalebr@emory.edu
Arriola
Kimberly Jacob
KJ
Jenkins
Tyrrell R
TR
Dauria
Emily
E
Patel
Shilpa N
SN
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001741:Black or African American / Q000523:psychology*; D001727:Bisexuality / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000523:psychology; D017280:Condoms / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D030881:Disclosure; D005845:Georgia; D018451:Homosexuality, Male / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000523:psychology; D055815:Young Adult