Project IMPACT
A Research Study for Young Sexual Minority Men
Researchers at the Fenway Institute are conducting a study in young men who have sex with men to evaluate a counseling intervention aimed at reducing risky behaviors, such as the use of stimulants.
Fast Facts
MSM Ages 16-24
Use Stimulants in the Context of Sex
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Boston, MA
Study Background
We are evaluating a counseling intervention called Project IMPACT to see if it helps reduce risky behavior, like stimulant use in the context of sex, for young sexual minority men.
Currently, there are no evidence-based programs to reduce stimulant use and the likelihood of acquiring HIV among young men who have sex with men (YMSM). In response to this urgent need, our research project aims to examine whether Project IMPACT—a program that combines HIV sexual health counseling with behavioral activation therapy—reduces HIV acquisition and transmission likelihood in cisgender YSMM (regardless of HIV status) who use stimulants in the context of sex.
If you are a YMSM who uses stimulant medications like crystal meth, MDMA, cocaine, or ecstasy/molly, and you are interested in a counseling intervention that may help you re-engage in enjoyable and meaningful life activities that do not involve stimulant use, you may be a good fit for this study. See if you are eligible today!
Study Background
We are evaluating a counseling intervention called Project IMPACT to see if it helps reduce risky behavior, like stimulant use in the context of sex, for young sexual minority men.
Currently, there are no evidence-based programs to reduce stimulant use and likelihood of acquiring HIV among young men who have sex with men (YMSM). In response to this urgent need, our research project aims to examine whether Project IMPACT—a program that combines HIV sexual health counseling with behavioral activation therapy—reduces HIV acquisition and transmission likelihood in cisgender YSMM (regardless of HIV status) who use stimulants in the context of sex.
If you are a YMSM who uses stimulant medications like crystal meth, MDMA, cocaine, or ecstasy/molly, and you are interested in a counseling intervention which may help you re-engage in enjoyable and meaningful life activities that do not involve stimulant use, you may be a good fit for this study. See if you are eligible today!
Additional Information
The goal of this study is to measure the effectiveness of Project IMPACT, a program that combines HIV sexual health counseling with behavioral activation therapy. We hope that this will eventually fill the gap in available interventions to reduce risky behavior among young men who have sex with men.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- You are 16 to 24 years old
- You were assigned male at birth
- You identify your gender as a man (cisgender man)
- You report having condomless anal sex with another man while using stimulants (e.g., MDMA, cocaine, methamphetamine, or ecstasy/molly)
This study will be conducted in person and will include 6 study visits, with the potential of 8 additional counseling sessions. A visit will include surveys, counseling, and blood and urine collection for STI and HIV testing.
As a participant, you can receive up to $700 for your time and effort.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
