The overarching aim of this proposed Phase II research project is to fill a gap in
prevention by completing the development and establishing the effectiveness of 3T: Tune
in, Turn on, Turn up, a multimedia interactive sex-positive smartphone app-delivered HIV
and other sexually transmitted infection (STI) intervention designed for use by YBMSM
ages 14-19. The larger and longer term aims of developing an intervention specifically
tailored to this population, utilizing a technology platform to reach youth where they
are, is to contribute to a reduction in HIV/STI risk, increase HIV testing, and an
increase in the quality of overall sexual health and relationships among YBMSM. To do
this 3T emphasizes partner reduction, avoidance of concurrent partners, use of condoms if
having anal or vaginal sex, and getting HIV/STI tests. 3T also focuses on improving
quality of sexual experience and relationships, helping participants become clearer about
what they do/don't want to do sexually, communicating their choices, and learning ways to
enhance sexual experience without increasing HIV/STI risk. dfusion and its research
partner, ETR, will meet the following specific Phase II aims:
In conjunction with advisory panel members, develop content and corresponding
storyboards for all activities. The curriculum will include content on risk
reduction, sexual health and the quality of sexual experiences, and developing
healthy relationships;
Successful development of the first mobile app-delivered STI/HIV prevention program
specifically designed for YBMSM aged 14-19. Reaching this aim requires continued
development of the app technology, including the multimedia interactive activities,
games, data collection, activity randomization, and an asynchronous forum. Research
shows that YBMSM use the Internet to find information related to sex and sexuality,
find friends and sexual partners, and YBMSM are increasingly using mobile apps, such
as Grindr, to meet sex partners.20 The reliance on mobile devices for education and
entertainment make it the ideal technology platform for reaching the YBMSM audience;
Conduct a rigorous evaluation to determine the effectiveness of the intervention to
reduce HIV/STI risk.
The evaluation features a 2-arm randomized controlled trial with approximately 300 young
black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) to assess the effectiveness of the 3T mobile app.
To be eligible participants will be required to identify as male; Black,
African-American, or biracial Black/African American; age 14-19 at baseline;
self-identify as gay, bisexual, fluid, or sexually attracted to men; own a smartphone,
and reside in any state in the United States. Those in the treatment arm will be provided
with the 3T app and those in the control arm will be asked to use a website with general
health information. Participants will complete brief online surveys at baseline and at
3-months following the baseline to assess effectiveness in changing sexual risk behaviors
and relationship and communication behaviors and attitudes.
Recruitment. We will use multiple methods to recruit participants: 1) Engaging
Organizations. Approximately 15-20 organizations from across the U.S. that serve YBMSM
will be approached to help recruit participants through social media and in-person 2)
Using Social Media Advertising including targeted advertising on social media sites and
sponsoring study posts with social media influencers in the YBMSM community.