Related Experiment Videos
Prostitution, violence, and posttraumatic stress disorder
1Prostitution Research and Education, Women's Centers, San Francisco, CA 94116-0254, USA.
Women & Health
|August 12, 1998
Summary
High rates of violence, including childhood abuse and adult rape, are experienced by sex workers. These experiences are linked to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, with many desiring to exit the industry.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Sex workers face significant violence, impacting mental health.
- Childhood trauma and adult victimization are prevalent in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between lifetime violence and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in sex workers.
- To identify specific types of violence associated with PTSD severity.
Main Methods:
- 130 sex workers in San Francisco were interviewed.
- Data collected on childhood assaults, adult victimization in prostitution, and PTSD symptoms.
- Statistical analysis to correlate violence types with PTSD severity.
Main Results:
- 68% of participants met DSM III-R criteria for PTSD.
- PTSD severity correlated with total types of lifetime violence, childhood physical abuse, and rape in prostitution.
- High rates of physical assault (82%), weapon threats (83%), rape (68%), and homelessness (84%) were reported.
Conclusions:
- Lifetime violence is strongly associated with PTSD in sex workers.
- A majority of sex workers desire to leave the industry and require support.
- Interventions addressing trauma and facilitating exit strategies are crucial.