NCJ Number
224411
Date Published
2008
Length
16 pages
Annotation
Using a rich source of data in developing a large sample of male sex workers who advertise their services on the Internet, this chapter describes the sexual practices and intentions of male sex workers as reported to clients, with attention to the practice of “barebacking“ (anal sex without protection).
Abstract
This study found evidence of a thriving male sex industry in which men present themselves openly to the public as providing a sex service. Similar to findings in other studies, the profiles of male sex workers are diverse. The stereotypical image of an effeminate gay persona is challenged by the number of male escorts with a hypermasculine body and the diversity of sexual practices and orientations of these men. Although over half of the sample reported always practicing safe sex, it is of concern that just under half of the sample reported that they preferred not to answer questions about their sexual practices regarding safe sex or that they never/sometimes practiced safe sex. Further research should identify the factors that may be associated with safe-sex practices among male sex workers; for example, age may be a factor, as older workers and clients may be more willing to engage in riskier behavior as they become less attractive. “Barebacking” increased during the mid-1990s. This may reflect client demand as well as a preference by the sex worker under certain circumstances. If researchers can determine the factors that influence male sex workers’ attitudes and behaviors related to unsafe sex practices and increased risk for HIV/AIDS, then appropriate interventions can be tailored to changing these factors. Data were collected for 1,426 escorts from 14 cities, based on information listed on their Web sites between May-June 2005. 3 tables and 37 references