Perspectives on Sexual Health, Sexual Health Education, and HIV Prevention From Adolescent (13-18 Years) Sexual Minority Males

Introduction: Adolescent sexual minority males (ASMM) are at disproportionate risk of HIV infection. The purpose of this study was to assess ASMM's attitudes about sexual health, barriers/facilitators to accessing HIV prevention, and actual versus ideal interactions for receiving sexual health care and information. Method: Two online and two in-person focus groups were conducted with ASMM from across the United States. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. Results: Twenty-one racially diverse ASMM participated (average age = 16.4 years). Online focus groups were superior for reaching the target population. Four themes emerged: 1: identity formation and sources of support, 2: challenges to obtaining sexual health information, 3: attitudes/beliefs about sex and sexual behaviors, and 4: barriers to HIV prevention. Discussion: These findings illustrate current gaps in sexual health knowledge, as well as barriers and facilitators to obtaining sexual health information, sexual health care, and affirming education and support for ASMM.