Dispelling Myths and Understanding Realities: Working Conditions, Health Status, and Exiting Experiences of Sex Workers

Abstract

Details how most sex trade workers see the sex trade as their main means of making a living, and that those working on the street experience comparatively less occupational control and more harassment than counterparts located in indoor venues. Examines how the criminal nature of the sex trade in Canada has a dramatic impact on workers’ rights and safety. Explores how most sex trade workers report that their health is not what they would like it to be, that only a minority escape from their situations through the use of illicit addictive substances, and that even those who have permanently exited continue to struggle with mental health and related problems. Suggests the need for a variety of frontline and preventive health services.