The aim of this study was to analyze the perception of social support in men living with HIV and in men who attend HIV testing, using Bronfenbrenner's ecological model as a reference framework. The study included 213 participants: 93 without a confirmed diagnosis and 120 diagnosed with HIV, all of whom reported being men who have sex with other men (MSM). The Modified Natural Semantic Networks method was applied to identify meanings attributed to support from partners, family, friends, and society.
The results indicate that both groups agree that they feel supported when they are listened to, understood, accompanied, and cared for. However, significant differences were observed; in the case of men with HIV, family and healthcare personnel are the main sources of support, with mothers and siblings playing a particularly important role. On the other hand, those who only came for testing report greater trust in friends and partners, as well as an expectation of community support. Regarding partners, men with a diagnosis report negative perceptions associated with a lack of support or even experiences of rejection, while the other group emphasizes trust, affection, and honesty. Regarding friends, both groups agree on the importance of loyalty and understanding, although those diagnosed consider this network to be limited. Finally, both groups mention stigma, discrimination, and ignorance in society, along with perceptions of a lack of adequate programs.
The findings confirm that social support plays a protective role by promoting adherence to treatment and mitigating the emotional impact of diagnosis. However, tensions arising from stigma and social exclusion persist. It is concluded that strengthening family, community, and social support networks is key to improving the quality of life and sexual health of men with HIV.