An Exploratory Study of Contextual and Situational Factors Related to Methamphetamine Use among Gay and Bisexual Men in New York City

Abstract

This exploratory investigation describes methamphetamine use among a convenience sample of gay and bisexual men in New York City. A total of 49 participants reported using methamphetamine, on average, 12 days over the past three months, and 63.1% of the participants reported use with the majority of their sexual encounters. Poly-substance use was high in this sample of methamphetamine users. Methamphetamine use was more frequent among those men who reported using the drug in bathhouses and bars, and frequency of use was associated with a need to escape unpleasant emotions and physical discomfort, avoid social conflict, and enjoy pleasant times with others. The data suggest a contextual understanding of methamphetamine use in New York City that is similar to that of gay communities of the western United States.