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Abstract
Improving HIV prevention for male sex workers in social work
A. Pfister, A. Parpan-Blaser, S. Nideröst, D. Gredig
Issues: Male Sex Workers (MSW) are a target group of social work. Amongst other one goal of social work in this field is to prevent HIV- and STD-infections. For this purpose several prevention activities were developed in the past. The results of a Swiss study provide clues about how to improve HIV prevention for MSW.
Description: The main purpose of the qualitative study was to explore the effect of the framing (definition of a situation) on MSW´s HIV-protection strategies. 15 MSW were chosen through theoretical sampling and participated in a qualitative interview. Data were analysed along the principles of grounded theory.
Lessons learned:
1. There are several frames of commercial sexual encounter.
2. Besides commercial frames there are other - in their character more private - frames (search for social contacts/relationship/sexual satisfaction) in which MSW are in greater danger of conducting none or more risky HIV-protection strategies.
3. Professional orientation as a MSW enhances effective HIV-protection strategies in the sexual interaction with the customer.
4. MSW are often in control of the sexual interaction.
Recommendations:
1. In counselling activities it has to be considered that some MSW practice transactional sex not only due to an existential need for money. MSW may consider sex work also as a profitable or enjoyable opportunity to earn money or as delivery of a qualified service.
2. MSW should not be addressed as "workers" having transactional sex only, but also as human beings having sex with occasional and/or steady male and/or female partners.
3. Professional orientation as a MSW has to be strengthened.
4. MSW should not be adressed as per se oppressed by their clients. Their resources have to be taken into account. This is the basis for empowerment.
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
CDC1673
Suggested Citation
"A.Pfister, et al.
Improving HIV prevention for male sex workers in social work.
:
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
CDC1673"
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