Curte sem capa ? práticas e saberes de HSHs sobre barebacking e redução de danos

Abstract

This qualitative research aimed to investigate the practice of barebacking by men who have sex with men (MSM) and associated harm reduction practices. For data collection, a netnographic method was used based on posts from users of a closed Facebook group created to discuss issues related to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). The posts were selected through the search instrument and collections of the Facebook application itself, limited to the period from January 2019 to January 2021. As a method of data analysis, content analysis was used, which made it possible to define two categories: 1) motivations for the practice of barebacking; 2) associated harm reduction practices. The data were discussed in the light of the Harm Reduction Theory. Among the main findings, the following stand out: 1) as recurrent motivations: the search for intimacy with partners and the excitement resulting from the feeling of risk; 2) among the harm reduction practices, the use of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis was found as a biomedical strategy and as behavioral strategies, the choice of partners based on health criteria and the practice of withdrawal. In the final considerations, the limitations of this study and directions for further studies are presented. Keywords: Bareback. Barebacking. Sexuality. Damage Reduction.