Predictors of Sexual Aggression Intentions Among Sexual Minority Men: Exploring the Utility of Vignette Methodologies

Abstract

Sexual violence (SV) is prevalent yet understudied among sexual minority men (SMM), leaving gaps in understanding perpetration risk. Experimental analogues are commonly used to examine SV perpetration among heterosexual samples, yet little to no research has examined whether these methods are relevant to SMM, limiting researchers’ ability to identify unique predictors among this population. This study examined the feasibility of using vignette methodologies with SMM and investigated empirically supported predictors of aggressive sexual intentions. First, among the full sample (N = 604), we assessed the feasibility and validity of using written SV vignettes with SMM (n = 253) by comparing their perceptions of scenario realism, immersion, and sexual arousal to those of heterosexual men (n = 351). SMM rated the vignettes as similarly realistic and engaging, supporting their utility for this population. Second, limiting the analytic sample to SMM, we tested a model in which internalized homophobia predicted sexually aggressive intentions via male rape myth acceptance (MRMA), conditional on self-reported sexual interest and perceived partner interest. These findings highlight the importance of addressing MRMA and situational misperceptions in prevention efforts. Tailored interventions that consider both internalized stigma and contextual risk factors are critical for reducing SV perpetration risk among SMM.