Prior research has reported some segments of the sex worker population are at higher risks of negative health outcomes. Historically, these outcomes were viewed as a result of the work itself without taking into consideration the role of the stigma and criminalization of sex work that are contributing factors impacting distress. Therefore, drawing upon minority stress theory and affirmative therapy guidelines for the LGBT population, this fact sheet conceptualizes sex workers’ mental health through a lens of minority stress, stigma, and stigma management.
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