An Aversion to Violence: Street-Based Sex Workers and Masculinity

• In Event: 591 - Regular Session. Sex and Violence

Abstract

The goal of this paper is to further investigate how men involved in crime perform masculinity and whether such exhibitions vary interactionally and situationally. To date, there are a number of excellent studies that illuminate the parameters of masculinity within streetlife subcultures. Street masculinity, a prominent hegemonic form among these individuals, lauds violence, aggression, and heterosexual prowess as a way for men to secure status and respect among their peers. Departing from this assumption, I contend constructions of masculinity are tailored to accomplish what is most valued, which is not always street credibility. To further explore gender performance, I rely on qualitative interviews with 19 adult men involved in street prostitution.

Author

• Sharon S. Oselin, University of California-Riverside