Understanding the sex education of gay men of color: a consensual qualitative research study

This study sought to explore the sex education of gay men of color by answering the following questions: (1) How do gay men of color explore and acquire information about sex? (2) What role does gay pornography play in the exploration of gay sex and identity for gay men of color? (3) How do the depictions of men of color in gay pornography impact their relationship to themselves and others in the gay community? Data analysis of the interview data from twelve gay men of color revealed that gay pornography is a primary source of sexual education and identity exploration that validated sexual identity and introduced gay men of color to race and gender sex stereotypes. These stereotypes created expectations that affected the participants’ experiences of self, relationships, and community. Despite the structural barriers and lack of inclusive sexual and health education resources, the gay men of color in this study navigated positive and negative experiences that helped them to re-evaluate and change these expectations of themselves and relationships. These findings contribute to the research literature to better understand the complex ways gay pornography affect the lives of gay men of color. Even more, this study illuminates the process gay men of color undergo as they make sense of race and gender sex stereotypes and determine their own relationship to those expectations. The participants shared common desires for change that help to direct future research and supports for gay men of color.