Document 2066
 DOCN  M94A2066
 TI    Formation of HIV support group for gay and bisexual men in a country
       where homosexuality is illegal.
 DT    9412
 AU    Sylvester C
 SO    Int Conf AIDS. 1994 Aug 7-12;10(1):389 (abstract no. PD0163). Unique
       Identifier : AIDSLINE ICA10/94370509
 AB    OBJECT: To highlight the needs and to provide support to HIV positive
       gay and bisexual men who deny their seropositive status and keep their
       sexuality concealed because they live in a society where they are not
       recognised. METHOD: After a popular theatre personality went public
       about being homosexual and having the HIV virus other gay and bisexual
       men came to him seeking advice. A weekly meeting started and discreet
       handbills were circulated at gay parties inviting other seropositives to
       join the group. A confidential line was also started and gradually more
       persons identified themselves and joined the group. RESULTS: Following
       the example set by others more gay and bisexual men are now empowering
       themselves and openly announcing their HIV positive status. Much of the
       taboo associated with HIV and AIDS within the gay and bisexual community
       is beginning to be dispelled and a more vibrant and positive attitude
       towards life and one another is being adopted. CONCLUSION: The coming
       out of one gay man with HIV has generated very positive reactions within
       the gay and bisexual community and has effected the coming together of
       other gays and bisexuals who are now prepared to be open about their HIV
       seropositive status. The formation of such a support has also assisted
       in creating more unity within the gay, lesbian and bisexual community.
 DE    Bisexuality/*PSYCHOLOGY  *Health Education  Homosexuality/*PSYCHOLOGY
       Human  HIV Infections/*PREVENTION & CONTROL/PSYCHOLOGY/TRANSMISSION  HIV
       Seropositivity/PSYCHOLOGY  Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice  Male
       *Self-Help Groups  Sex Behavior  Sex Education  *Social Control, Formal
       Social Identification  Trinidad and Tobago  Truth Disclosure  MEETING
       ABSTRACT

       SOURCE: National Library of Medicine.  NOTICE: This material may be
       protected by Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.Code).