Consistent with ecological models, Berg’s model includes macrosocial, mesosocial, interpersonal, and intrapersonal factors. In a recently published review of 42 peer-reviewed publications, Berg summarized prior findings and proposed a conceptual model “for understanding the reciprocal and dynamic relationships sustaining barebacking” (p.761).
Therefore, we sought to better understand the mental and contextual processes at play in the case of barebacking.įor the last decade many academic studies have attempted to identify factors associated with barebacking. Yet other behaviors (e.g., smoking, sunbathing) are initiated and maintained despite awareness of health risks.
Given that most human beings appear to value health over illness and that the illness risk associated with HIV infection is well known, especially among MSM in urban centers of developed countries, the practice of barebacking by uninfected MSM in a place like New York City appears at first view to be quite puzzling. “Barebacking” is the practice of intentional condomless anal intercourse among men who have sex with men (MSM) in circumstances in which there is risk of HIV transmission.
