Testing comprehensive models of disclosure of sexual orientation in HIV-positive Latino men who have sex with men (MSM)

Abstract

Individuals who disclose their sexual orientation are more likely to also disclose their HIV status. Disclosure of HIV-serostatus is associated with better health outcomes. The goal of this study was to build and test comprehensive models of sexual orientation that included eight theory-informed predictors of disclosure to mothers, fathers, and closest friends in a sample of HIV-positive Latino gay and bisexual men. US acculturation, gender nonconformity to hegemonic masculinity in self-presentation, comfort with sexual orientation, gay community involvement, satisfaction with social support, sexual orientation and gender of the closest friend emerged as significant predictors of disclosure of sexual orientation.

Keywords:

• sexual orientation disclosure
• Latino MSM
• HIV-positive
• acculturation

Acknowledgements

The data for the current study were originally collected for R01 MH60545 (1999–2003), “Disclosure of HIV status among Latino gay and bisexual men,” M. C. Zea, principal investigator, P. J. Poppen, and C. A. Reisen, co-investigators. Preparation of this manuscript was supported, in part, by center grant P30-MH52776 from the National Institute of Mental Health and by NRSA postdoctoral training grant T32-MH19985 and F31 MH 078826 to Luis Garcia.