The Missing Gender: Sexual Exploitation of Boys and Men
Glenn Miles, PhD, MSc, FRCPH, FHEA, RN | September 23 | 1:45-2:45 PM
Topic: Research, International | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
The sexual exploitation of young men has been largely neglected. The main research question of this study is “What is the evidence that young men are exploited?” A series of research projects have been conducted in Cambodia, Thailand, and the Philippines by up” International using ethically considered mixed method surveys. Interviews are conducted by local social workers who are trained in doing research with male sex workers and street boys. All of the research papers indicate a high level of sexual and physical violence, stigma, and discrimination against young men providing evidence that they do sex work for survival similar to their female peers. Cultural misunderstandings continue to abound that imply young men are not at risk of sexual exploitation and that if they do sex work, it is relatively safe due to their inherent resilience; that they choose to do it rather than be forced into it as is perceived of their female counterparts. Social workers and Non-Profits working in this sector need to consider how they can support young men in prevention and aftercare. Funders and researchers need to include and not deliberately or otherwise exclude young men/boys in their programs and research. Funding needs to be available to determine prevalence and proportionate resources provided.
Presentation Objectives:
· Describe the cultural misunderstandings of why young men are not adequately considered in programs and research addressing sexual exploitation
· Provide evidence of how young men are exploited in SE Asia and so should be considered in research and programs addressing sexual exploitation