Social and cultural vulnerability to sexually transmitted infection: The work of exotic dancers

This article examines the social and cultural factors that influence the vu lnerability of female exotic dancers to sexually transmitted infections. Re sults are based on a qualitative exploratory study using observations in 10 clubs and in-depth interviews with 30 dancers in southern Ontario. The soc ial and cultural context within which exotic dancing takes place contribute s to a chronic state of sexual harassment and sexual assault in the strip c lubs. Women are pressured by economics and by their customers to engage in sex for pay. The defence mechanisms that some women use to deal with these work conditions also contribute to women's vulnerability. The social struct ure of strip clubs and their policies toward employees and customers can ei ther reduce or exacerbate the vulnerability of dancers. Workplace policies and health and safety standards appear to be the most effective ways to dec rease the vulnerability of dancers. Public health units can work with emplo yers and dancers to establish workplace policies and programmes that contri bute to the health and wellbeing of dancers.