PhD grad's compassion shines a light on 'stigma'

Phillips. PHOTO: Robie Liscomb

By Anne MacLaurin

Where do you work? What do you do? The answer can cause anxiety for some health care professionals providing care to Victoria's sex workers. Sociology PhD grad Rachel Phillips calls it "stigma by association" or "courtesy stigma."

"I interviewed PEERS Victoria Resource Society health care workers who report discrimination related to the work they do," says Phillips. "Courtesy stigma impacts one's occupational health and well being."

Phillips chose PEERS as the subject of her research because its the only organization that ensures that women and men who have been in the sex industry have a voice in the community.
"I was touched by the passion and compassion that people brought to their work," says Phillips.

Phillips talked to 17 PEERS Victoria Resource Society staff, and many felt like they were treated by others as part of the problem and not the solution.

"The staff I interviewed often said they would receive unwanted opinions or insensitive comments from the public about their work or client population," says Phillips. "I hope my doctoral work can change how society views the important work conducted by those who provide support to stigmatized populations."

Her research resulted in many recommendations to help reduce stigma by association and its impacts. These include research-based training to help staff deal with stigma in the course of their work; more collaboration among those working on behalf of stigmatized populations, providing a more effective holistic approach and building understanding and trust; and improved funding and working conditions for those serving stigmatized populations.

"PEERS is already doing a lot to intervene in stigma by building a community where those who have been in the sex industry can talk about their experiences openly," Phillips explains.
Her academic advisor, Dr. Cecilia Benoit, says, "Rachel's doctoral research was lauded by her academic committee for its keen awareness of the constraints, opportunities and pressures faced by workers at PEERS Victoria and her ability to translate this knowledge into sound program and policy recommendations."

As well as being a grad student, Phillips is also a mother to a three-year-old. "My daughter really helps to put my priorities into perspective; and because she is three and is very curious and opinionated, her interpretations of things are often hilarious."

Phillips is currently at the Centre for Addictions Research of BC at UVic, where she will continue research on health and social services for vulnerable populations.