The role of family and friend social support in reducing risk behaviors among HIV-positive gay men

Researchers have intimated a link between social support acid risk-taking b ehaviors for HIV positive persons, yet few have empirically examined this a ssumption. This study examined HN positive gay men regarding their percepti ons of family and friend social support, behavioral intentions, and risk-ta king behaviors. Results indicated that the more family members were perceiv ed as supportive the less likely participants intended to behave in risky w ays. In addition, family availability for support was more predictive of re duced risky behaviors than the availability of friends. Implications for re searchers and helping professionals are discussed.