Community Readiness and Capacity to Address Partner Violence among Young Gay/Bisexual Men

Background: Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) experience rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) similar to or higher than heterosexual women.  In spite of these rates, no evidence-based prevention/intervention programs have been designed for this population or any sexual minority group.  In addition, there may be challenges related to policy and funding that make implementing such programs difficult. 

Method: We developed a study to assess providers’ and policymakers’ perspectives and readiness to address this issue.  Using a multi-method approach including crowdsourcing, interviews (n=12) and focus groups (n=3), we conducted an environmental scan of current programming and barriers/facilitators to implementing IPV programs for YMSM. 

Result: HIV and mental health were identified as the most pressing issues facing YMSM; providers acknowledged that IPV is related these.  Apart from court-mandated programs, programs focused on IPV prevention/intervention that target YMSM were not identified.  Barriers to implementing such programs included funding, lack of tailored services such as shelters and counseling and limited information about the problem.  Providers tended to support the idea of such programming but felt that a solid infrastructure was missing.

Discussion:  Addressing IPV among YMSM and other sexual minority groups will necessitate not only the development of culturally and developmentally appropriate interventions, but work with policymakers and funders to recognize the importance of this issue and the need for more targeted services.  Researchers and advocates should highlight YMSM needs and work to promote the idea that IPV interventions are not “one size fits all” and more targeted work is required.