Abstract
The use of indigenous researchers has long been practiced in ethnographic research; a similar use of indigenous personnel has not been as commonly undertaken in interview studies of men who have sex with men (MSM). This research note reports on the use of indigenous interviewers in a study of Latino MSM’s perceptions about sexual relationships and behaviors.
The full study explores sexual relationships among Latino MSM, and HIV risk behaviors undertaken by a population of MSM residing in a community in southern California. This research note describes both the strengths and limitations that arise from employing indigenous interviewers for improving the overall quality of sensitive data. Benefits discussed include improved access to an otherwise highly restricted group, enhanced rapport-building capabilities, and greater understanding of language unique to the study population. Limitations discussed include the use of previously untrained interview personnel and age and gender issues.
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Berg, B.L., Sañudo, F., Hovell, M. et al. The use of indigenous interviewers in a study of latino men who have sex with men: A research note. Sex Cult 8, 87–103 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12119-004-1007-0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12119-004-1007-0