Remote Sexual Decision-Making Research Study
Researchers at Boston University are conducting a remote study on alcohol use and sexual decision-making among men who have sex with men (MSM).
Fast Facts
Men Who Have Had Sex With Men In The Past 3 Months
Not Currently In A Monogamous Relationship
Compensation
Provided Up To $596
Conducted Remotely
Study Background
Alcohol use may influence in-the-moment sexual decisions, and this study aims to better understand how and why that happens.
Despite significant prevention efforts, HIV transmission remains a public health concern, particularly among men who have sex with men. Alcohol use is a key factor that may increase the likelihood of engaging in sexual risk behaviors. However, the exact pathways linking alcohol, arousal, and sexual decision-making are not well understood.
This study seeks to identify the mechanisms that connect alcohol consumption with sexual risk-taking and to evaluate a brief HIV-prevention intervention designed to reduce alcohol use and improve decision-making in high-risk moments. By taking part, participants contribute to research that may help develop more effective prevention strategies for the future.
Study Background
Alcohol use may influence in-the-moment sexual decisions, and this study aims to better understand how and why that happens.
Despite significant prevention efforts, HIV transmission remains a public health concern, particularly among men who have sex with men. Alcohol use is a key factor that may increase the likelihood of engaging in sexual risk behaviors. However, the exact pathways linking alcohol, arousal, and sexual decision-making are not well understood.
This study seeks to identify the mechanisms that connect alcohol consumption with sexual risk-taking and to evaluate a brief HIV-prevention intervention designed to reduce alcohol use and improve decision-making in high-risk moments. By taking part, participants contribute to research that may help develop more effective prevention strategies for the future.
Additional Information
This study is being conducted to better understand how alcohol and moment-to-moment arousal influence decisions about condom use, and to test strategies that may reduce sexual risk and alcohol-related harm.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Cisgender man who has had sex with men in the past 3 months
- Drink alcohol
- 18+ years old
Exclusion Criteria:
- Currently in a monogamous relationship
- Using PrEP
- HIV diagnosis
Participants will:
Complete a Baseline remote visit (~2 hours) that includes consent, questionnaires, and a short computerized task.
Take part in 3 weeks of brief daily smartphone surveys and a small memory task.
Attend Study Visit 2 (~1 hour), where they will be randomized to one of two brief counseling conditions.
Receive health-related text messages Thursday–Sunday for 4 weeks.
Complete a second 3-week period of daily surveys.
Complete a Follow-up remote visit (~1.5 hours) about 6 months after enrollment.
All participation is fully remote. While the study is conducted across three universities, participants will primarily communicate with the Boston University team.
Eligible participants can receive payment up to $596.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.