Feasibility and Acceptability of a Theater-Based HIV Prevention Workshop Developed by and for LGBTQ Youth.

Background Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth may have limited exposure to sexuality education programming that is affirming of their identities and unique experiences. Objective To develop and evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a theater-based HIV prevention workshop for LGBTQ youth. Methods The 3-hour-long workshop (piloted 2014-2015; n = 20 LGBTQ youth, 14-22 years old) consisted of instruction in HIV risk and prevention, humorous role plays, and analysis of HIV prevention strategies using a forum theater format. A mixed methods evaluation focused on feasibility and acceptability, with survey assessment data collected for preliminary efficacy (e.g., HIV knowledge, safer sex self-efficacy). Results Participants perceived the forum theater format, humor, and reality of the scenes as strengths. The language of workshop scripts and evaluation materials could be further modified to better affirm gender and sexual diversity. Conclusion Preliminary evidence of feasibility and acceptability were demonstrated. Future iterations of the intervention require rigorous quantitative evaluation for efficacy.