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The existence of a bug chasing subculture
David A Moskowitz1, Michael E Roloff
1Department of Communication Studies, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA. d-moskowitz1@northwestern.edu
Culture, Health & Sexuality
|July 7, 2007
Summary
This study confirms a gay subculture, "bug chasers," actively seeks human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Two groups, apathetic and ardent, show varying desires for seroconversion through unprotected sex.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- A controversial subculture of gay men, 'bug chasers,' reportedly desires voluntary human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
- This study investigates the existence and motivations of bug chasers and their search for seroconversion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To authenticate the existence of the 'bug chaser' subculture.
- To examine the tenacity with which bug chasers seek HIV seroconversion.
- To compare bug chasers with 'barebackers,' who practice intentional unprotected anal intercourse.
Main Methods:
- A quasi-randomized survey of personal profiles was employed.
- Bug chasers were compared against barebackers.
- Participant motivations and sexual practices were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Bug chasers were authenticated as an observable subculture within barebackers.
- Most bug chasers showed apathy towards partner serostatus or actively sought serodiscordant partners.
- Two subgroups, 'apathetic chasers' and 'ardent chasers,' were identified based on their pursuit of seroconversion.
Conclusions:
- The 'bug chaser' subculture, characterized by a desire for HIV infection, exists.
- Subgroups within bug chasers exhibit different levels of intentionality in seeking seroconversion.
- Findings highlight complex sexual behaviors and risk-taking within specific gay male subcultures.
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