Psychosocial Characteristics and Sexual Risk Behaviors among Female Exotic Dancers Who Have Sex with Women in Baltimore: A Brief Report

The aim of this study was to compare psychosocial characteristics and sexual risk behaviors that may increase sexually transmitted infection risk among women who have sex with women compared to women who have sex with men only who are female exotic dancers (N = 117) in Baltimore, Maryland. The author used multivariate logistic regression to determine which psychosocial characteristics and sexual risk behaviors were independently associated with women who have sex with women status. Multivariate results indicated that women who have sex with women status was associated with recent homelessness, illicit substance use, and sex exchange. Prevention interventions for sexually transmitted infections should aim to address psychosocial vulnerabilities in addition to reducing sexual risk behaviors.