Most British people think that sex work should be legal, but is it ‘real work’?
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Despite the stigma that still surrounds the industry, a recent YouGov survey has revealed that a majority of Brits believe that paying for sex should be legal. However, there remains uncertainty about whether sex work should be considered ‘real’ work.
The survey delved into public sentiments regarding the legality of sex work, perceptions of who qualifies as a sex worker, and attitudes toward the profession. The findings painted a nuanced picture of the public’s views on this contentious issue.
Legalization of Sex Work:
More than half of Britons (52 per cent) stated that it should be legal to pay for sex, while 28 per cent disagreed. Additionally, 54 per cent believe that receiving payment for a sexual act should not be against the law. The distinction between these two aspects of sex work is crucial, as campaign groups debate whether to legalize or criminalize both paying for and selling sex work or focus solely on the demand.
While sex work is legal in the UK (except in Northern Ireland), there are conditions. The majority of Brits (57 per cent) expressed support for individuals independently offering sexual services in private settings, such as independent prostitutes or escorts operating from their homes or hotel rooms. However, street solicitation remains illegal, with 72 per cent of respondents supporting this regulation.
Perceptions of Sex Work:
The term “sex work” can be ambiguous, leading to varying perceptions of what it entails. The survey revealed that 94 per cent of respondents consider prostitutes and escorts to be sex workers, while almost 90 per cent include porn actors and cam models in this category. Sixty-five per cent also regard “sugaring” – where a younger person offers a romantic relationship to an older wealthy individual in exchange for material goods – as sex work.
However, opinions diverged when it came to lap dancers, strippers, and nude models posing in a sexual manner. While 55 per cent considered lap dancers and strippers to be sex workers, only 38 per cent held the same view regarding nude models.
Is Sex Work ‘Real Work’ and Addressing Stigma:
The public’s perception of whether sex work constitutes ‘real’ work was fairly evenly divided, with 43 per cent believing that it should be regarded legally and socially like more conventional forms of employment. Campaign groups advocating for the legal status of sex workers aim to de-stigmatize the industry. The survey found that 75 per cent of respondents acknowledged a significant amount of stigma towards sex work.
Despite recognizing the stigma associated with sex work and sex workers, 51 per cent of respondents expressed that they believe sex work should not be stigmatized. However, many individuals admitted that they would not want to be in a relationship with or be friends with a sex worker. Close to 90 per cent stated that they would be unwilling to date an escort, prostitute, or porn actor.
The survey also highlighted gender disparities in experiences with paying for sexual services. While nine per cent of men admitted to having paid for sex, no women reported doing so. Men were also more likely to have paid for services such as stripteases or lap dances.
In conclusion, the survey’s findings shed light on the complex and nuanced attitudes towards sex work in British society. While there is support for the legalization of paying for sex and a recognition of the stigma surrounding sex work, questions remain about whether it should be considered ‘real’ work and how to address societal perceptions of those involved in the industry. As discussions around these issues continue, it is evident that there is still much debate and uncertainty surrounding the topic of sex work in the UK.
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