Sexually transmitted infections, social stigmas and gender differences

Abstract

As rates for Sexually Transmitted Infections increase in society, those infected face stigmatization and rejection. Using survey methodology, the author explored attitudes and opinions about STIs from a variety of respondents, focusing on societal stigmatization along gender lines. The majority of respondents were well educated about symptoms, means of transmission, and treatment of STIs. However, they held pervasive attitudes that people with STIs are promiscuous or irresponsible. The author argues that such attitudes reinforce the existence of widespread and oppressive social stigmas surrounding Sexually Transmitted Infections.