ALCOHOL-CONSUMPTION, BROTHEL ATTENDANCE, AND CONDOM USE - NORMATIVE EXPECTATIONS AMONG THAI MILITARY CONSCRIPTS

This article investigates the relationship between alcohol consumption and inconsistent condom use with brothel-based commercial sex workers among Thai military conscripts in Northern Thailand. Data from 10 foc us groups indicate that alcohol consumption (1) is consciously used by men to reduce inhibitions that constrain their interpersonal interact ion with women and with each other; (2) reduces inhibitions of individ uals to sexual risk taking; (3) provides a socially acceptable excuse for nonuse of condoms; (4) is associated by conscripts with brothel at tendance; and (5) is seen to enhance male sexual pleasure, in contrast to condoms, which are said to reduce pleasure. Understanding the cult urally defined expectations that surround alcohol consumption and sexu al behavior is critical for developing realistic interventions to redu ce HIV transmission.