Space: The New Frontier in HIV Prevention For Young Men Who Have Sex With Men

Abstract

Young men who have sex with men (MSM) in urban areas of the United States continue to be vulnerable to HIV infection. Qualitative data collected with participants in a community level HIV intervention in West Hollywood and Orange County, California, suggest that space -- both actual physical space and the concept of having space -- should be an integral part of an HIV prevention intervention for young MSM. Having such spaces appears to contribute to youth sense of empowerment and efficacy and foster community building, all important components of an effective HIV prevention. Data were drawn from a qualitative research sample of 73. Through narratives, young men describe specific characteristics of the space necessary for effective HIV intervention, including mentoring and supportive staff, tolerant and like-minded peers, information exchange, opportunities for strengthening self-esteem, and a sense of collaborative community invested in social change.