Developing a Culturally Informed Peer Support Model for Men Who Have Sex With Men Living With HIV: A Qualitative Study in Indonesia.

Authors

Endah Sri Wahyuni, Eti Poncorini Pamungkasari, Vitri Widyaningsih

Published in

Journal of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care. Volume 25. Pages 23259582261469771. Epub Jul 20, 2026.

Abstract

BackgroundMen who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV in Indonesia experience intersecting stigma affecting psychosocial wellbeing and healthcare engagement. Existing peer support models often lack cultural and spiritual relevance.AimThis study aimed to develop a culturally informed peer support model based on the experiences of MSM living with HIV and key stakeholders.MethodsA qualitative study was conducted in Central Java, Indonesia, using in-depth interviews, a focus group discussion, and field observations. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsThree themes emerged: stigma and internalised stigma, barriers to healthcare access, and the need for holistic peer support integrating psychosocial, spiritual, and cultural aspects. These informed a culturally grounded peer support model integrating the Information-Motivation-Behavioural Skills framework with the Javanese philosophy of Sangkan Paraning Dumadi.ConclusionThis model may support HIV care engagement and improve the relevance of peer support interventions among MSM living with HIV.

PMID:
42474462
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 20 Jul 2026.

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