A classification profile of high -risk sexual behavior among men who have sex with men

his dissertation documents the critical importance of research in sexual risk behavior and HIV serostatus in men who have sex with men (MSM). Since the incidence of HIV/AIDS in the 1980's, researchers have identified an abundance of predictors of sexual risk in MSM. While the research to this point has been invaluable, this study attempts to clarify some of the complex and unique interactions and relationships in MSM that predict sexual risk behavior and serostatus. The current study develops a detailed risk profile of MSM through the use of non-linear classification tree analysis (CTA) via ODA 1.0 software. The basis for this novel analytic approach is supported by the increasing popularity of individually-tailored HIV prevention strategies. Two analyses were conducted. The first analysis examined sexual risk behavior. This analysis correctly classified 62.4% of individuals' risk behavior outcomes. The strongest predictor of recent unprotected anal sex was ability to maintain commitment to safer sex (self-efficacy for safer sex). Individuals' level of "outness" and perceptions of gay identity also contributed to a greater likelihood of risk classification. Lower levels of self-efficacy for maintaining commitment to safer sex and high levels of positive gay identification led to classification in the risk-behavior category. Indications of low self-efficacy and low positive gay identification with even minute levels of negative affect were also classified in the risk-behavior category. A second analysis examined HIV serostatus classification. This classification tree model for HIV serostatus correctly classified 76.6% of all respondents. In this model, the predominant predictor of HIV serostatus was age. MSM older than 31.5 years old were predicted to be HIV positive. For these MSM, income, level of outness, education, and participation in gay parties and clubs also refined prediction of HIV serostatus. Both MSM with income above and below...