The economics of sexuality: the effect of HIV/AIDS on homosexual behavior in the United States

Journal of Health Economics
Andrew M Francis

Abstract

In this paper, I test a simple microeconomic theory of sexuality. I apply the theory to make predictions about the effect of AIDS on sexuality, since AIDS dramatically altered the cost of sexual activities. Using a nationally representative dataset on sexuality in the United States, I estimate the effect of AIDS on male and female homosexual behavior. To do so, I postulate that people who have a relative with AIDS, on average, have more knowledge, awareness, and fear of AIDS. Empirically, this variable is uncorrelated with a number of individual background characteristics. I present evidence that AIDS causes some men to shift from homosexual to heterosexual behavior, whereas AIDS causes some women to shift from heterosexual to homosexual behavior. Thus, sexual behavior may respond to incentives. I consider alternative hypotheses, including biological theories of sexual orientation and stigma-related survey bias, and argue that they are unlikely to explain the results.

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Citations

Oct 12, 2012·Archives of Sexual Behavior·Andrew M Francis
Apr 1, 2011·SAHARA J : Journal of Social Aspects of HIV/AIDS Research Alliance·Adedeji AdefuyeYavuz Yakut
Jan 27, 2012·Journal of Health Economics·Emily Oster
Dec 29, 2009·Journal of Health Economics·Andrew M Francis, Hugo M Mialon
Feb 15, 2012·Economic Inquiry·Hugo M Mialon

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