Affiliation:
1. University of Rochester, School of Nursing
2. Behavioral, Sexual and Global Health Lab
3. Hope Alliance Foundation
4. School of Public Health, University of Rochester
5. Yale University
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Gays, bisexuals, and cis-gender men who have sex with men (GBMSM) face severe consequences, especially within stigmatized environments. However, very little is known about the experiences of GBMSM living in slums in SSA and Ghana. This study investigates the experiences of stigma, victimization, and coping strategies and proposes some interventional approaches for combating stigma facing GBMSM in slum communities.
Methods
We engaged GBMSM living in slums in two major Ghanaian cities. We used a time-location sampling and collected data through in-depth individual interviews. Two major themes emerged from the study: 1) insecurities and criminalization of GBMSM activity, and 2) GBMSM coping strategies.
Results
Findings show GBMSM experienced negative attitudes from the community due to their sexual behavior/orientation. GBMSM also developed coping strategies to avert negative experiences, such as hiding their identities/behavior, avoiding gender non-conforming men, and having relationships with persons outside their communities.
Conclusion
We propose interventions such as HIV Education, Empathy, and Empowerment and Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy as possible measures to improve the experiences of GBMSM living in Ghanaian slum communities.
Publisher
Research Square Platform LLC
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