Chapter 15: Sex as a Commodity & Regulation of Sexuality

Selling Sex

Ranges from virtual (online porn) to in-person activities (stripping, prostitution).

Obscene Material

Material deemed inappropriate with restricted access.

Pornstar Profile

Research indicates pornstars have comparable self-esteem levels to non-actors and typically have more off-screen partners.

OnlyFans

A platform allowing creators more autonomy and personal engagement compared to mainstream porn.

Sexting

The act of sending sexually explicit messages, with 13-18% of middle and high school students reporting engagement.

Deep Fake Porn

Nonconsensually created porn utilizing AI and images of individuals, disproportionately affecting women.

Synthetic/AI Porn

User-generated novel content with complex ethical implications, influenced by viewer demographics.

Reasons

Includes pleasure, curiosity, emotional distraction, and stress reduction.

Impact

Positives include affirmation of sexual identity; negatives include inaccurate perceptions and lower partner satisfaction.

Messages

Mainstream porn often depicts infrequent condom use and male-on-female violence.

Effects on Relationships

Porn use can lead to issues such as divorce, but some positives exist in relationships.

In-Person Sex Work

Includes strip clubs, street walkers, brothels, and escorts.

Who

Often includes young runaways and individuals facing poverty, drug use, or abuse.

Customers

Typically older, less educated, and seeking casual sex without commitment.

Human Trafficking

Involves both voluntary and involuntary participants, often targeting young women and girls.