Self-perceived stigma, depressive symptoms, and suicidal behaviors among female sex workers in China. uri icon

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.

published proceedings

  • J Transcult Nurs

altmetric score

  • 2.5

author list (cited authors)

  • Hong, Y., Fang, X., Li, X., Liu, Y., Li, M., & Tai-Seale, T.

citation count

  • 48

complete list of authors

  • Hong, Yan||Fang, Xiaoyi||Li, Xiaoming||Liu, Yang||Li, Mingquiang||Tai-Seale, Tom

publication date

  • January 2010