Official websites use. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. However, there remains a lack HIV prevention interventions for this population. This study describes the use of Photovoice in the adaptation process of an evidence-based intervention Adult Identity Mentoring to make it developmentally and culturally appropriate for AAYMSM. Thirty-six AAYMSM ages 18—24 participated in weekly working group sessions to conduct a community, youth and data-driven adaptation process.
Photovoice was used as a technique to facilitate guided discussions on topics that were identified for the new curriculum. This new focus and resulting curriculum are rooted in the voices and perceptions of the target population. Including youth was integral to the adaptation process and the use of techniques such as Photovoice helped ensure that the resulting adaptation was relevant to the target population.
A range of interventions addressing the epidemic among older MSM has been documented Herbst et al. Developmental factors likely play a role in the risk profiles and trajectories of YMSM. Emerging adulthood, typically defined as the years between the ages of 18—25, is a developmental period distinct from adolescence in that it is a time of greater independence when young people may explore different life goals and opportunities in school, work, and intimate and peer relationships Arnett, This is also a developmental period when youth may begin experimenting with behaviors, e.
Results indicated greater reduction in HIV risk behaviors among those who attended multiple versus single sessions. The intervention includes peer-led, risk reduction workshops, social events that include HIV prevention messages, and the development and dissemination of cultural- and age-appropriate HIV social marketing campaigns.
In spite of the need for culturally and developmentally appropriate HIV prevention interventions for AAYMSM, there is limited work to address this gap in prevention research. The adaptation process can take on a number of forms but should ensure that the newly adapted curriculum is not contradicting the core elements or internal logic of the original intervention McKleroy et al. One such method is Photovoice, an innovative method that provides individuals with cameras to photograph aspects of their lives that are relevant to a community need.
