Philippine E-Journals

Lived Experiences of Man Having Sex with Man (MSM): Psychosocial Implications

Mark Mauris Cabahug

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

Regardless of sexual orientation, MSM is a man who have sex with another man. The study's primary purpose is to discover the lived experiences, sexual behavior, perception on HIV testing and safe sex, and psychosocial state of MSM in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines. The study used a qualitative research method using a selfmade structured interview guide anchored on the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), Self-Worth Theory of Achievement Motivation, and Social Support Theory which a registered psychologist checked. Snowballing technique was used to identify the informants of the study. One month of data collection was allowed. Upon reaching the point of saturation, the data collection ended; the study had 18 informants. All informants are single, 18 years old is the youngest, and 33 is the oldest. There were 7 gays and 11 bisexuals: 11 are college graduates, 6 are still in college, and 1 is a product of ALS (Alternative Learning System). Furthermore, 16 are employed and 2 are unemployed. The study results revealed that although informants perceived that safe sex is beneficial to their sexual health, their lived experiences revealed that they choose risky sexual behaviors due to sexual preference, uncontrollable sensations of lust, and satisfaction which have been associated with catching and transmitting of HIV. The findings also revealed that HIV testing is hampered by fear and shame of the consequences of testing positive, and that informants who have had prior HIV testing are more inclined to test for HIV because of the benefits of testing are significant. The study found that despite the lack of affirmation and approval from their families and society, the informants claimed they have a sense of self-worth. Furthermore, results showed that obtaining support and acceptance from their family and the society will improve the MSM quality of life. The findings of the study would form a basis for the intervention program. Moreover, the study lacks informants who are older, married and MSM living with HIV. Additional research among older, married and MSM living with HIV must be conducted in order to acquire more extensive and relevant data on their lived experiences and psychosocial status.