SOCIO-CULTURAL ADAPTATION STRATEGIES OF FORMER COMMERCIAL SEX WORKERS IN BUILDING THE PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE IN RRI SURAKARTA

Abstract

This study aims to describe the adaptation strategies conducted by former commercial sex workers in building the public acceptance in the environment of RRI (Indonesian national radio station) Surakarta. Regardless of their background status that creates a negative stigma, the former commercial sex workers are required to adapt to the local community environment. This study applies the theory of adaptation strategy proposed by John William Bennett, and uses the qualitative writing method and the phenomenological approach. The subjects of this study are the former commercial sex workers aged over than 35 years old and living in the social environment of RRI Surakarta. The data collection techniques used include the direct observation and interviews. The data analysis performed begins with data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and ends with conclusion. The results of this study show that the socio-cultural adaptation strategies conducted by the former commercial sex workers in the environment of RRI Surakarta include the strategies of adaptive behavior, adaptive strategy, and adaptive process. The community in RRI Surakarta is able to accept the existence of former commercial sex workers since in their adjustment process, they show a good behavior, active participating in social activities, and having the desire to change from their former status as commercial sex workers.