Navigating violence and stigma: exploring victimization, identity, and their consequences in commercial sex among male sex workers in Barcelona (Spain)

• In Event: Victimology Working Group Panel 4 Consequences of Victimization

Abstract

This research project delves into the understudied area of victimization of male sex workers (cis and transsexual), aiming to understand the diverse challenges this group encounters. While academic literature predominantly focuses on female sex workers, this research addresses the scarcity of information on their male counterparts, constituting a mere 10% of relevant publications. Moreover, the few previous studies in this field have relied on approaches riddled with clichés and assumptions with little to no empirical basis regarding the research context. For instance, the notion that potential violence among men is equal and therefore, victimization is unlikely. By focusing on the city of Barcelona and through the collaboration with several social organizations working in the field, the project seeks to unravel the complexities of male sex work. By employing a qualitative methodology through the conduction of open in-depth interviews, the study aims to investigate the social, health, lifestyle, and risks faced by male sex workers in Barcelona.

Authors

• Marc Balcells, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya

• Pablo Romero-Seseña, CRÍMINA Center, University Miguel Hernández of Elche