Battering and HIV in men who have sex with men: a critique and synthesis of the literature.

Recent empirical evidence demonstrates the relationship between HIV and battering victimization in men who have sex with men (MSM). Although there is an abundance of literature examining domestic violence among heterosexual couples, there is minimal empirical evidence regarding battering among same-sex male couples. To obtain an understanding of the current state of the science, this literature review provides a critique and synthesis of the identified battering and HIV literature in MSM. After an examination of the relationship between HIV and battering, the prevalence of battering in MSM from the literature is critically reviewed. To establish a framework for understanding battering in MSM, the identified correlates of battering for both the victim and the perpetrator are examined. This critique and synthesis concludes with implications for clinical nursing practice.