Social support and condom use among female sex workers in China

Health Care Women Int. 2015;36(7):834-50. doi: 10.1080/07399332.2014.971952. Epub 2014 Dec 22.

Abstract

While the relationship between social support and psychological well-being has been well established, limited studies have explored how social support might affect condom use among female sex workers (FSWs). Using cross-sectional data from 1,022 FSWs in Guangxi, China, we examined how different forms of support from diverse sources may influence condom use among FSWs. Friends, coworkers, and stable partners were FSWs' main sources of social support. Social support from diverse sources differently impacts FSWs' condom use. Policymakers need to consider the complicated profile of social support received by FSWs and create supportive environment for FSWs to protect themselves from HIV risks.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • China
  • Condoms / statistics & numerical data*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Intention
  • Male
  • Risk Factors
  • Safe Sex / psychology
  • Sex Work / psychology*
  • Sex Workers / psychology*
  • Sexual Partners*
  • Social Support*
  • Socioeconomic Factors