New Technologies and Chemical Culture: Examining Deployment and Effects Among MSM

This project will examine how various chemical substances such as recreational drugs, prescribed drugs, steroids, and more impact the sexual health of gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM) through online technologies. Despite unprecedented pharmaceutical advancements in HIV treatment and prevention, rates of transmission remain consistent and slightly increasing among MSM with almost half of all infections. Virtual space has come to dominate the space within which MSM meet for sexual encounters. In addition, this new venue for connecting people for sexual purposes is often fueled by various "chemical" influences. The proliferation of messaging relating to various chemicals in online technologies may be creating a "chemculture" among MSM. Through a critical qualitative design, this research explores the proliferation of chemculture through online technologies and how this relates to sexual health in the gay community.