Philippine E-Journals

Self-esteem Influences Depressive Symptoms among Female Sex Workers

Remedios T. Navarro

Discipline: Social Science

 

Abstract:

Diagnosis of depressive symptoms is critical in wellness programs. This study determined the extent to which Female Sex Workers (FSWs) registered in selected areas in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, experienced depressive symptoms and how their socio-demographic, medical profile, and self-esteem relate with it. It utilized the descriptive-correlational method of research, with a Personal Data Sheet, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) as tools for data gathering. The data were statistically treated with frequency, percentage, mean and simple correlational analysis. Findings reveal that the majority of the respondents are single; have no children; earn Php10,000/USD 232 and below per month; are already working as FSWs for 1-5 years, 7 days a week and 7-9 hours daily; were employed locally before working as FSWs, drink alcohol and undergo the required medical/laboratory examinations regularly. Further, most are 16-20 years old, from the National Capital Region, and finished high school education. Their level of self-esteem is average, and depressive symptoms, mild to moderate. The socio-demographic and medical profile is not significantly related with the level of depressive symptoms. Self-esteem is inversely related to the level of depressive symptoms. The lower the level of self-esteem, the higher is the level of depressive symptoms and vice versa.