The social and work context of commercial sex between men: a research note

Abstract

A qualitative approach was used to explore the social and work contexts of the commercial sexual encounter between male sex workers and their clients. Male sex workers aged between 19 and 34 were interviewed in Melbourne. This preliminary, exploratory study suggests that dominant traditional models of male sexuality and masculinity may be reflected in how male sex workers give meaning to commercial sex. The study also reveals that, by using a career orientation towards their work, male sex workers may be able to separate work sex from personal sex, understand their work within the broader social context of work, reject the stigma of commercial sex, use their bodies as a resource that allows them to capitalise on male sexual privilege, and practise safe sex with their clients. Suggestions for further research into safe sex negotiations and practices in male commercial sex encounters are outlined.