Geosocial Networking Apps Use Among Sexual Minority Men in Ecuador: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Geosocial networking applications (GSN apps) have become important socialization contexts for sexual minority men (SMM). Despite their popularity, there is limited research carried out in Latin American countries and no single previous study done in Ecuador. To fill this gap, this exploratory study described and analyzed the relationships between the sociodemographic characteristics of SMM using GSN apps, their sought and fulfilled expectations, profile shared and sought characteristics, and the evaluation of their experiences as users including their perceptions of support, and discrimination. We used an online recruited sample of 303 participants enrolled between November 2019 and January 2020. Most respondents used Grindr and reported spending up to 3 h per day using apps. Most common sought expectations were getting distracted, meeting new friends, and meeting people for sexual encounters. The least met expectation was meeting someone to build a romantic relationship with. When asked about their profiles, participants reported sharing mainly their age, photographs, and sexual role. Participants also prioritized these characteristics when looking at others’ profiles. When asked about their experiences, most reported having been discriminated against, weight being the main reason for it. Some participants also indicated having received emotional support from other users. Correlation analyses indicated significant but weak relationships among the variables. Results indicated a positive correlation between time as an active GSN app user and higher experiences of discrimination. Likewise, higher number of used apps related positively with levels of received support. These results provide information that could inform future research in the country and the region regarding GSN apps use among SMM, socialization practices, and modern dating tools.

Sexual Behaviors and HIV/STI Prevention Strategies Among Sexual Minority Men in Ecuador Who Use Geosocial Networking Apps

“…However, in this article, we analyzed data from the 284 participants who reported having sexual encounters with other app users they met. Other results from this study are reported elsewhere (Hermosa-Bosano et al, 2021 ).…”

Using social and sexual networking mobile applications to promote HIV testing, medical care and prevention services among Latino men who have sex with men in Los Angeles County, California, USA

“…Research on apps use by MSM is conducted worldwide. Examples of this include studies from Australia [37], Brazil [38,39]; Canada [40], China [41][42][43][44][45][46][47], Ecuador [48,49], England [50], Japan [51], the Netherlands [52], the Philippines [53] and Spain [54,55]. Most of these studies explored topics such as users' experiences connecting with others through apps, engaging in high-risk behaviors, and using apps for obtaining sexual health and HIV prevention information, as well as the opportunities provided for promoting HIV testing and linkage to HIV treatment via apps to users.…”