This study investigated the influence of sexual double standards on perceptions of targets experiencing illness. Sexual transmission was predicted to result in greater stigmatization. A Target Gender X Illness Transmission interaction was hypothesized, such that female targets with sexually transmitted illness (e.g., STI) would be stigmatized and social rejected more than male STI targets or targets with nonsexual illness (e.g., NSI). Undergraduate students from the southeastern United States (n=151) read descriptions of targets diagnosed with an illness transmitted nonsexually or sexually. Results confirmed sexual transmission led to more negative perceptions of the illness and target; a Target Gender X Illness Transmission interaction influenced social rejection. Qualitative data demonstrated participant gender and illness transmission mode affected anticipated emotional and social reactions.

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