Abstract
The paper presents a qualitative analysis of sexual episodes reported in the context of in-depth interviews with gay men in San Francisco. The analysis is based not on comparisons between individuals or groups, but rather on comparisons between sexual episodes - protected and unprotected, risky and safe - within individuals' sexual lives. The analysis revealed a convergence of six important factors in risky sexual encounters, including negative emotional states prior to the encounters, sex under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, and low perceptions of sexual control. The findings suggest that individuals come to sexual encounters in search of experiences other than simply sex, such as interpersonal connection, social acceptance or emotional release. In those cases where the need for connectedness, affirmation, or self-worth is so great and deeply felt, individuals' usual concern for sexual safety and health seems to be overpowered.
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