Venue-Mediated Weak Ties in Multiplex HIV Transmission Risk Networks Among Drug-Using Male Sex Workers and Associates.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

We investigated the structural characteristics of a multiplex HIV transmission risk network of drug-using male sex workers and their associates.

Methods

Using a sample of 387 drug-using male sex workers and their male and female associates in Houston, Texas, we estimated an exponential random graph model to examine the venue-mediated relationships between individuals, the structural characteristics of relationships not linked to social venues, and homophily. We collected data in 2003 to 2004. The network comprised social, sexual, and drug-using relationships and affiliations with social venues.

Results

Individuals affiliated with the same social venues, bars, or street intersections were more likely to have nonreciprocated (weak) ties with others. Sex worke

SUBMITTER: Fujimoto K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4431095 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature