Risky Sex?

Using as its base the gay community of West Hollywood, California, this work profiles seven gay men. In candid, in-depth interviews, they discuss their experiences in the age of AIDS, their attitudes towards sex, and their motives for engaging in behaviours that are considered to be dangerous health risks. Their testimonies prompt a reassessment of the "relapse" model. The sheer diversity of the gay community must be taken into account if health educators and activists are going to be effective: rather than seeking to eradicate unsafe sex, a more realistic goal is the reduction of risky behaviour. Citing alternative "prevention management" approaches, the author recommends ways to promote safer sexual practices that reduce the risk of AIDS, while repecting the choices and judgements of gay men.