The sexual behaviors of non-gay identified men who have sex with men and women (MSMW) who do not disclose their same-sex behavior
to their female partners (referred to by some as men “on the down low”) were examined, including the potential for these men
to serve as a “bisexual bridge” for HIV and STD acquisition and transmission. Self-reported sexual behavior data were collected
as part of an exploratory study of an ethnically diverse (41% African American, 35% Latino, 22% White, and 2% Asian) sample
of 46 non-gay identified, non-disclosing MSMW in New York City. Men reported significantly more male than female sexual partners,
but more frequent sex with females. The prevalence and frequency of unprotected sex did not differ significantly between male
and female partners in the past 3 months. Men reported risk behavior more often with steady female and steady male partners
(e.g., wives, girlfriends, boyfriends) than with more casual male and female partners (regular uncommitted partners, one-night
stands). Men, especially African American/Black men, were significantly less likely to report receptive sexual behaviors with
men than insertive behaviors. Unprotected sex was common with male and female partners in the past 3 months (e.g., 35% of
anal sex with men; 50% of vaginal sex). Indeed, 22% of the sample (38% of those who had both recent males and female partners)
reported both unprotected vaginal sex and unprotected anal sex with a male partner during the past 3 months. Although the
study was limited by a small convenience sample, the findings suggest that non-gay identified non-disclosing MSMW are at risk
for the acquisition and transmission of HIV and STDs, and may serve as a potential bridge, suggesting the need for further
research and intervention targeting this unique population.
Keywords Bisexuality - Sexual relationships - Risk behavior - Gender differences - Ethnic differences