Project Description:
The primary aim of the project is to test a brief four-session risk reduction intervention, based on Motivational Interviewing (MI) for the co-occurrence of club drug use [i.e., cocaine, LSD, GHB, ketamine (“K”), MDMA (“Ecstasy”), and methamphetamine (“Crystal”)] and sexual risk taking behaviors among non-treatment seeking Young Men who have Sex with Men (YMSM) in NYC. A sample of 300 MSM who report risky sex and club drug use in the past 90 days will be randomly assigned to one of two study arms: a Brief Risk Reduction Intervention Condition designed to increase readiness to change club drug use and unprotected sex; or an Education Comparison Condition, four sessions of facilitated education regarding the effects of club drugs and unprotected sex. Participants will complete a baseline assessment and follow-up assessments at 3, 6, 9, and 12-months in order to assess short-term and longer-term effects.

PARTICIPANT ENROLLMENT ONGOING. Call 212-206-7919 x 302 for more information

Project Description:
Transgender women (Persons born “male” with a female gender identity) have frequently been the target of violence, prejudice and discrimination. As a result, transgender women often develop poor coping skills that often lead to risk taking behaviors and poor self care. Previous research has identified trangender women for being at HIV risk for infection or transmission of HIV due to risky sexual as well as drug injection behaviors (most often illegal hormones). This CDC funded project intends to develop and evaluate a “ground breaking intervention” for transgender women. Demonstrated effectiveness of interventions for transgender women is extremely limited and there are no current CDC evaluated interventions for this population. Hudson Pride Connections, in Jersey City, NJ. ( www.hudsonpride.org) which currently offers a support group for trans women will collaborate with CHEST on this project.

Project Description:
 The objective of this project is to investigate the role of particular cognitive profiles (i.e. patterns of impairment in brain function and decision-making ability) in determining the relationship between substance use and risky sexual behavior among men who have sex with men (MSM).   This research is designed to begin bridging the gap between neuropsychological and behavioral research in HIV prevention, examining how cognitive functioning might play a role in HIV risk-taking, both among substance users and in the specific context of substance use.  A better understanding of the role of neurocognitive factors may lead to the development of new intervention strategies focusing on these elements, and may lead to the modification of existing interventions to include components that better meet the particular needs of participants. 

Project Description:
This formative study aims to explore the ways in which independent female escorts who advertise on the Internet manage the demands of their business, as well as the impact of stigma on their lives. The goal is to identify the ways in which independent female escorts work to maintain their health, safety, and happiness while maximizing their profit. Participants in this study complete an anonymous qualitative interview and a short survey that assesses safer sex practices, mental health and work related burnout.

PARTICIPANT ENROLLMENT ONGOING

HIV Prevention Communication among Black MSM
Funder: Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
Funding Period: 2007-2011
Principal Investigator: Jose Nanin, Ed.D.
Co-Investigators: Sarit A. Golub, Ph.D; Jeffrey T. Parsons, Ph.D.
Project Coordinator: TBD
Collaborator: Tokes Osubu, MA (Gay Men of African Descent)

Description:
This cross-sectional formative research study, using quantitative and qualitative data collection methods, will explore the relationship between interpersonal communication about HIV prevention and HIV testing intentions among NYC-based Black men who have sex with men (BMSM), ages 18-64, and other MSM members of their social networks. Theoretical framework is based on the theory of reasoned action and diffusion of innovation theory. Using an adaptation of respondent-driven sampling, a total of 300 BMSM and other MSM in their social networks will be recruited via active and passive recruitment methods at specific venues and special community events. Results from this study will facilitate a better understanding about the specific messages being conveyed about HIV prevention and HIV testing between Black men who have sex with men and their friends, peers and sexual partners. Gay Men of African Descent, located in Harlem, NY (www.gmad.org) and currently offering HIV testing and support services for BMSM, will collaborate with CHEST on this project.