SOC105 03/04

Infamous Study: Tea Room Trade

• Definition of Infamous: Famous for not necessarily a good reason. Refers to events or people known for negative aspects.

• Significance of the Study: Highlights ethical concerns in research. Known as Humphreys Research.

  • Book: "Tearoom Trade: Impersonal Sex in Public Places" by Lauman Humphreys.

Context and Purpose of the Study

• Explores the prevalence of public sex and societal norms around it.

• Public sex, though common, lacks comprehensive academic research.

• The study by Humphreys aimed to delve into the demographics and motivations behind public sexual encounters.

Understanding the Tearoom Trade

• Definition: Refers to impersonal sexual encounters typically occurring in public restrooms.

• Setup: Involves a discreet exchange where one male inserts his penis through a hole in the stall, while another performs oral sex; no personal interaction occurs afterward.

  • Role of Lookout: A lookout person monitors the activity, protecting participants from being caught by authorities or other individuals entering the restroom.

Research Methodology

• Conducted in the 1970s as part of Humphreys' dissertation research.

  • Dissertation: A significant, exhaustive study required for a doctorate in various fields.

• Methods Used: Participant observation, where Humphreys acted as a lookout, directing activities in the tearoom.

  • Terms: Known as the "watch queen", the lookout ensures participant safety from outsiders interfering in the sexual exchanges.

Findings of the Study

• Demographics of Participants: Humphreys discovered surprising aspects of who participates in public sex.

  • About 50% of participants were married, living with wives.

  • 38% identified as heterosexual, often describing tense marriages lacking sexual activity post-children.

  • Remaining 62% identified as bisexual or homosexual:

    • 24% were bisexual and married.

    • A portion was covertly homosexual (in the closet).

    • Smallest group was openly homosexual men.

Ethical Concerns and Violations

• Humphreys' research methodology raised serious ethical questions:

  • Involved tracking license plates and obtaining home addresses through DMV contacts, compromising participant confidentiality.

  • Participants were unaware of the study's true nature, violating informed consent principles.

• This approach blurred the lines between ethical research practices and invasive journalism.

Conclusion

• The tearoom trade study serves as a cautionary tale in social science research, emphasizing the importance of ethical standards and informed consent.

• The researchers must not only record observations but also respect the privacy and autonomy of participants.