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Self-Perceived Stigma, Depressive Symptoms, and Suicidal Behaviors Among Female Sex Workers in China

¹ Texas A&M School of Rural Public Health
² Beijing Normal University, China
³ Wayne State University
⁴ Liuzhou Center for Disease Control, China

^* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: yhong{at}srph.tamhsc.edu.

	Abstract

Data regarding female sex workers’ (FSWs) self-perceived stigma and their mental health are limited, particularly in developing countries. This study, using a cross-sectional survey among 310 FSWs in China, addresses this issue. Data indicate that most of these FSWs had medium to high levels of self-perceived stigma, 30% had elevated depressive symptoms, 18% had suicidal ideation, and 9% had suicidal attempt in the past 6 months. After controlling for potential confounders, FSWs’ high-level self-perceived stigma was significantly associated with their poor mental health. The authors call for culturally appropriate approaches to reduce stigma and promote psychological well-being among this marginalized and vulnerable population.

First published on October 9, 2009
Journal of Transcultural Nursing 2009, doi:10.1177/1043659609349063


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