Addressing payment for sex in substance use disorder interventions: Unveiling professionals’ intentions and practice

ABSTRACT This study explored the perspectives of social workers from addictions field regarding payment for sex (PS) and the associations with self-efficacy, comfort to discuss sexual issues in treatment (CDSIT), and attitudes toward social justice, toward people who receive payment for sex (PRPS) and toward PS. Participants (N = 123) completed an online questionnaire. Main findings showed that while most acknowledge the significance of addressing PS with clients with substance use disorder, they often did not do so in practice. Attitudes toward social justice, attitudes toward PRPS (perceived as victims rather than choosers), and CDSIT were key predictors.