It's all about "connecting": reasons for drug use among Latino gay men living in the San Francisco Bay Area

Abstract

Research on Latino gay men drug use is limited. This study explores the narratives of 16 Latino drug-using gay men living in the San Francisco Bay Area by exploring the role social settings play in their drug use, as well as by identifying the reasons and motivations for drug-use. Using a thematic content analysis, 16 interviews with LGM living in the San Francisco Bay Area were analyzed. Results suggest LGMhave different reasons for drug use across multiple settings. Participants use drugs to cope with their sexual identity, to feel like part of the mainstream gay community, and to reduce sexual inhibitions. Understanding how Latino gay men (LGM) perceive their drug use within their social, political, and economic environment would aid in the development of culturally adequate interventions.