| Room 518 | Sexuality and Commerce Wednesday, July 13, 2005 Time: 8:30 AM-10:30 AM |
Psychosocial Characteristics of Male Sex Workers in a Small US City.
Smith, Michael*,1, Seal, David 2, Hetrick, Samantha1, Marino, Joanna1, McMonegal, Katherine1, Meyer, Katherine1, 1 Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, PA, USA2 Center for AIDS Intervention Research (CAIR), Milwaukee, WI, USA
ABSTRACT- Introduction: Little research has described the psychosocial and work characteristics of male commercial sex workers (MCSWs) based in the rural U.S. Thus, we interviewed 30 MCSWs (aged 18-35, mean = 22.4 years) working for an escort agency in a rural Mid-Atlantic U.S. city (pop. <50,000) to obtain psychosocial and sexual behavior information. 80% self-identified as homosexual/bisexual. Results: (1) MCSWs reported having an average of six clients per month, almost all male. Client calls usually lasted less than one hour and about 2/3 included sexual behavior, typically oral sex. (2) Most (> 80%) MCSWs disliked having sex with clients, preferring non-sexual escort activities (e.g., conversation, outings, travel). Clients seeking only companionship were highly prized. MCSWs with non-sex clients gained status for being able to satisfy clients without sex. During sex calls, MCSWs preferred conversation and alcohol use before sex to increase comfort and decrease time for sex. (3) Most participants started escorting for money, and were introduced to the agency manager by someone who already worked there. Although money remained a key reason MCSWs continued work, they also highlighted personal identification with the agency and a personal connection to the manager who was viewed as trustworthy and friendly. MCSWs noted the social opportunities afforded by the agency. A majority spent some free time there socializing. (4) Nearly all participants reported frequent alcohol use. Binge drinking was common. A majority reported weekly use of marijuana or other substances (most often crystal methamphetamine, cocaine, or ecstasy). (5) 70% of the participants experienced clinical levels of psychiatric distress. Psychiatric distress was related to overall substance use, but not related to HIV risk behavior or substance use during sex. Psychiatric concerns and high levels of substance use typically pre-dated sex work. (6) Other than parental divorce (70% of MCSWs), family variables were not associated with sex work. About 2/3 were currently involved in non-escort employment. Men not employed outside of sex work often lived at the agency, had increased history of homelessness, and greater psychiatric distress and substance use. Implications: Comparisons with previous research, future research needs, and public policy implications will be presented.
Key words: sex work, men, relationships, mental health, psychosocial