P021. Content Analysis of LGBTQ+ Online Escort Ads in Canada

• In Event: Poster Session & Ice Cream Social

Abstract

Most research on escort advertisements has focused on women providing sexual services to men, and more recently, men offering services to other men (M4M). However, there is still a research gap in terms of understanding the online sexual services offered by trans women (T4M). This study examines how sexual and gender minority providers (particularly trans women and M4M escorts) advertise their online and offline services. We present the preliminary results of a content analysis of online ads, applying Lugo-Graulich et al.’s (2024) indicators of sex trafficking. Potential indicators linked to trafficking activity include language related to ethnicity, youth, and trustworthiness. We compare the content of the providers' ads based on personal descriptors, both sexual and nonsexual services, and the aforementioned sex trafficking indicators. This study contributes to filling the gaps in research on T4M providers and our understanding of the online sex market.

Authors

• Cameron Coutu, University of Montreal

• Francis Fortin, University of Montreal