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Sanctioning Sex Work: Examining Generational Differences and Attitudinal Correlates in Policy Preferences for
Ráchael A Powers1, Jacquelyn Burckley1, Vanessa Centelles1
1Department of Criminology, University of South Florida.
Public opinion on sex work is shifting, with younger adults favoring less criminalization. Policy preferences vary widely across different forms of sex work, indicating a need for nuanced regulation.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Public Policy
- Criminology
Background:
- Public perception research on sex work in the U.S. predominantly focuses on street-based activities, neglecting diverse forms like online sexual services.
- Recent legislation (FOSTA-SESTA) targeting human trafficking has faced criticism for negatively impacting sex workers, particularly those in online spaces.
- Understanding varied policy preferences is crucial for developing effective regulations that protect sex workers' well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine U.S. adults' policy preferences regarding the legalization and regulation of diverse forms of sex work.
- To identify generational differences in attitudes toward sex work policy.
- To explore attitudinal correlates of sex work policy preferences.
Main Methods:
- A web-based survey of 549 U.S. adults was conducted.
- Policy preferences were assessed across thirteen distinct forms of sex work, varying by contact, space (in-person/virtual), and entrepreneurship.
- One-way ANOVA and multivariate regression analyses were used to examine generational differences and attitudinal correlates.
Main Results:
- Significant age-related differences were found in policy preferences and reasons for opposing sex work.
- Policy preferences favoring illegality were negatively associated with pro-choice attitudes and positively associated with perceived government legitimacy.
- Generational differences suggest a trend toward reduced criminalization of sex work.
Conclusions:
- U.S. public opinion on sex work exhibits nuances not currently reflected in policy.
- Generational shifts indicate a potential move away from criminalization towards more regulatory approaches.
- Policy development should consider the diverse realities of sex work and evolving public attitudes.
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