Stigma on the Streets, Dissatisfaction in the Sheets: Is Minority Stress Associated with Decreased Sexual Functioning Among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men?
Authors: Li Dennis H. , Remble Thomas A. , Macapagal Kathryn , Mustanski Brian 
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Sexual function and satisfaction are understudied aspects of adolescent and young adult sexual wellbeing, and even less is known about sexual minority youth who are vulnerable to unique lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT)–related stigma.

Aim

We aimed to describe sexual functioning (sexual interest, erectile function, orgasm satisfaction, global satisfaction with one’s sex life, and anal discomfort) and examine its associations with demographics, sexual and relationship behavior, and minority stressors (internalized stigma, victimization, microaggressions, and perceived LGBT acceptance within residential neighborhood) among a cohort of young men who have sex with men (YMSM) aged 16–29.

Methods

Data for this cross-sectional analysis came from an ongoing longitudinal study of HIV and substance use among YMSM (analytic N = 678). We conducted univariate and bivariate analyses and multivariable linear regression, controlling for age, race/ethnicity, and sexual orientation as well as sexual and relationship characteristics that were significant at the bivariate level.

Main Outcome Measure

We assessed sexual functioning in the previous 30 days using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Sexual Function and Satisfaction Measures Brief Profile for Males.

Results

YMSM in our sample reported high levels of sexual functioning that were significantly greater than an adult clinical reference population. However, 13.9% of the sample reported having any difficulty with erections, 6.9% reported having less than “good” satisfaction with orgasms, 20.0% reported being “somewhat” or less satisfied with their sex lives, and 9.1% reported experiencing problems during receptive anal sex at least “sometimes.” Most associations between minority stressors and sexual functioning domains that were significant at the bivariate level attenuated to non-significance in multivariable analyses. Internalized stigma remained negatively associated with global satisfaction, whereas perceived neighborhood acceptance remained positively associated with orgasm satisfaction. Being sexually active was significantly associated with increased sexual interest and orgasm satisfaction. Having had a recent serious partner was significantly associated with sexual interest and global satisfaction. Negative effects were found for having had casual partners and being HIV positive.

Clinical Implications

Although most YMSM have high sexual functioning, a minority report problems and dissatisfaction that may warrant intervention.

Strengths & Limitations

Our study was limited by its cross-sectional design, measurement limitations, and generalizability to other populations, but it is one of the first to examine sexual functioning among YMSM, using a large, diverse community sample.

Conclusion

Public health research and practice must continue to combat LGBT stigma and include sexual functioning as integral to healthy sexuality.