Coping as a mediator of the impact of sociocultural factors on health behavior among HIV-positive Latino gay men

In a sample of 140 HIV-positive immigrant Latino gay men, we tested a mediational model of the impact of sociocultural factors (i.e., poverty, discrimination, and U.S. acculturation) on active engagement of health-promoting behaviors (i.e., practicing good health habits). The role of coping as a mediator was examined. We proposed that the experience of social discrimination, together with acculturation, has a negative influence on active coping, which in turn would impact health behaviors. Regression analyses supported the role of coping as a mediator between sociocultural factors (specifically discrimination based on race or ethnicity and acculturation to the U.S.) and health-promoting behaviors. Findings from this study contribute to explaining the way in which sociocultural factors impact health among those who are HIV-positive and most vulnerable in our society.