As part of a larger study, we investigated the feasibility of using Internet research to capture the demographic characteristics of a largely closeted sexual minority and to report such characteristics in the first national study of transgender persons ever attempted in the United States. To achieve a nonclinical national sample, online convenience sampling was used. Of 1,373 surveys received, 1,229 (90%) were deemed complete and from unique individuals self-identifying as transgender, 18 years or older, and U.S. residents. Participation approximated that predicted by the U.S. Census (2000). Comparison with census data identified the sample as younger, White (non-Hispanic), single, more educated but with less household income, living in smaller towns to medium-sized cities, and less affiliated with traditional Christian denominations. Demographic characteristics differed significantly by both gender and transgender status. The challenge of achieving demographically representative sampling online, as well as implications for future research and policy, are discussed.

This study sought to identify how urban gay communities are undergoing structural change, reasons for that change, and implications for HIV prevention planning. Key informants (N=29) at the AIDS Impact Conference from 17 cities in 14 countries completed surveys and participated in a facilitated structured dialog about if gay communities are changing, and if so, how they are changing. In all cities, the virtual gay community was identified as currently larger than the offline physical community. Most cities identified that while the gay population in their cities appeared stable or growing, the gay community appeared in decline. Measures included greater integration of heterosexuals into historically gay-identified neighborhoods and movement of gay persons into suburbs, decreased number of gay bars/clubs, less attendance at gay events, less volunteerism in gay or HIV/AIDS organizations, and the overall declining visibility of gay communities. Participants attributed structural change to multiple factors including gay neighborhood gentrification, achievement of civil rights, less discrimination, a vibrant virtual community, and changes in drug use. Consistent with social assimilation, gay infrastructure, visibility, and community identification appears to be decreasing across cities. HIV prevention planning, interventions, treatment services, and policies need to be re-conceptualized for MSM in the future. Four recommendations for future HIV prevention and research are detailed.