Archived

This content is available here for research, reference, and/or recordkeeping.

Author ORCID Identifier

0009-0007-5428-6306

Date Available

5-29-2025

Year of Publication

2023

Document Type

Capstone

Degree Name

Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

Faculty

Dr. Laura E. Escobar-Ratliff, DSW

Abstract

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) continues to be an epidemic among gay and bisexual men or men who have sex with men (MSMs). For Black MSMs, the HIV infection rate is disproportionate compared to the number of Black or African American citizens in the U.S. Black MSMs have the highest HIV infection rate in the U.S. This Capstone Project seeks to explore the possible impact of trauma experiences among this group and determine how providing trauma-informed care, along with the standard HIV education and awareness can be used to effectively reduce this disparity and ultimately help to eliminate HIV/AIDS per the goal recently set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Key Findings. A review of the literature found in the University of Kentucky library database revealed six (6) articles addressing African American MSMs, HIV/AIDS prevention, and trauma between 2012 and 2022 in the United States. These studies suggest that Black MSMs experience high levels of trauma experiences due to their skin color and sexual orientation. Further, these trauma experiences increase when this group has extended involvement with the criminal justice system. As chronic trauma leads to brain and cognitive changes, probable depression, and poor health outcomes, it would follow that utilizing a trauma-informed approach with this group will result in optimal outcomes. In addition, strategies to increase motivation to better care for themselves will likely motivate this group to maintain positive changes that minimize their risk of contracting or spreading HIV. The practice application component reviews a model implemented in one private practice. It reviews a case sample using trauma-informed care and self-determination strategies to help a young gay man resume taking medications and change other behaviors that would elevate his risk if not changed. Recommendations include conducting a trauma assessment early in the engagement phase of treatment, HIV screening as part of that initial assessment, and immediate planning on mitigating risk or appropriate referrals when necessary. The clinical social worker or other clinicians should ideally work closely with local or regional AIDS services organizations and other HIV service providers to facilitate this referral. On the site, HIV screening is encouraged.

Download

Share

COinS