Social Identities, Self-Perception, and the Stigmatization of Female Prostitutes

Abstract

This literature review focuses on exploring the psychological and social effects that female prostitutes endure from their identification with a stigmatized group. The prostitute label implies a number of stereotypes that lead to the negative treatment and regard of these individuals. Female prostitutes are often identified as victims, criminals, and deviants, but many members are becoming more active in fighting these associations and rather making a more positive name for themselves by identifying as businesswomen, feminists, and activists. In this way they are fighting for their own civil rights and liberties, social treatment, safety of work environment, and quality of life.