Vulnerability to HIV among regular male partners and the social coding of intimacy in modern societies

Abstract

Recent studies suggest that regular male partners who engage in unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) are currently at risk of HIV infection. In this paper, we try to offer a single and coherent theoretical framework to understand this profile of HIV infection. Data on transformations of intimacy in recent times, UAI and condom use between regular male partners and their correlates are reviewed. Firstly, we describe the social and historical context of modern intimate relationships. The differentiation of intimate relationships and their newfound autonomy from traditional social forces are explored to determine how they may contribute to the destabilization of intimate trajectories. Secondly, we theorize UAI as an attempt to stabilize intimate relationships and a strategy to reaffirm mutual trust, desire and intimacy between regular male partners. The impacts of such an approach to social vulnerability and HIV prevention are also discussed.