Understanding the Complexity of Alcohol-Related Intimate Partner Violence in the Lives of Hispanic Men Who Have Sex with Men: Methodological Issues and Considerations

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to highlight methodological issues and considerations which will be of use to researchers interested in further understanding the complexity of intimate partner violence in the lives of Hispanic men who have sex with men. We present a brief review of the research on intimate partner violence which highlights intersections of health and behavior risk factors (i.e., alcohol-related-intimate-partner-violence and HIV/AIDS risk) pertaining to gender, ethnicity, and sexuality in this population of males. We then present the reader with a synthesis and critique of several methodological concerns relevant to furthering research in this area including: locating participants, considerations of the impact of local cultural contexts, and impact of researcher positionality. Research recommendations for addressing intimate partner violence as a complex public health concern embedded in “hidden populations” conclude the paper.