Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026

Measuring Frailty in HIV-infected Individuals. Identification of Frail Patients is the First Step to Amelioration and Reversal of Frailty
Published on: July 24, 2013
Self-esteem instability and its implications for HIV prevention among gay men
1Ehrenkranz School of Social Work, New York University, NY 10003, USA. james.martin@nyu.edu
Abstract:
This study, using a modified State Self-Esteem Scale (SSES), examined self-esteem instability and its association with risky sexual behavior among 455 gay and bisexual men. A self-administered questionnaire included the SSES and measures of intimacy, loneliness, social support, and ways of coping. Analysis of variance showed that the self-esteem of participants who recently engaged in unprotected anal intercourse with nonprimary partners was more unstable than the self-esteem of participants who did not engage in unprotected anal intercourse. Self-esteem instability was associated with higher avoidance coping, higher loneliness, and lower social support. Episodes of self-esteem injury might motivate some gay men to engage in risky sex. HIV prevention strategies with gay men should target the quality of their interpersonal relationships and community supports.
Related Concept Videos
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
Self-Discrepancy and Its Effects
Sources of Self-Esteem III: Social Comparison
Need for Self-Esteem
Protecting Self-Esteem
Amebiasis

