Sex work-related stigma: Experiential, symbolic and structural forms in the health systems of Delhi, India

Soc Sci Med. 2019 May:228:85-92. doi: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2019.02.052. Epub 2019 Mar 3.

Abstract

Sex work-related stigma is prevalent in urban India. While HIV-stigma is often discussed in urban Indian health contexts, rarely is sex work-related stigma investigated as it shapes sex workers' health experiences. This paper discusses the findings of an ethnographic study with women who practice sex work (WPSW), healthcare providers, and NGO workers in Delhi, India over seven months in 2017. We apply a tri-tiered model of stigma as constituted of experiential, symbolic, and structural forms, to better understand how WPSW experience sex work-related stigma as it relates to their health. Identifying and understanding manifestations and experiences of stigma is crucial to supporting WPSW health. We conclude that in the face of criminalized legal contexts, both non-governmental and governmental interventions to improve WPSW's health must contend with their own tendencies to reinforce prevailing stereotypes and symbols that stigmatize sex work and the people who engage in it.

Keywords: Health care access; India; Sex work; Sex work stigma; Stigma.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Health Personnel / standards*
  • Health Personnel / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • India
  • Middle Aged
  • Physician-Patient Relations
  • Quality of Health Care / standards*
  • Quality of Health Care / statistics & numerical data
  • Sex Workers / psychology*
  • Sex Workers / statistics & numerical data
  • Social Stigma*