Online & Offline Sexual Exploitation of Boys, Young Men, and Trans/Third Gender Youth in Northern Thailand

Jarrett Davis, MA; Glenn Miles, PhD; Maia Mounsher & Madeline Stenersen, PhD | September 21 | 9:45-10:45 am

Topic: Research, International | Knowledge Level: Beginner

As travel and internet usage have become more readily accessible to individuals across the globe, the sexual exploitation of children and youth—both online and in-person—has also become convenient for sexual predators in Thailand. The purpose of the current study was to understand the state of online commercial sexual exploitation of boys, young men, and trans/third gender youth in Thailand. Data was analyzed from a total of 94 people, all of whom were assigned male at birth (AMAB). Forty-six percent of respondents identified as Cisgender Males and 54% identified as Trans/Third Gender. Data was collected regarding a diverse range of life experiences including experiences of sex trade and exploitation on and offline, accessing support services, and experiences of abuse and violence. Findings revealed that among the current sample, the use of the internet for sexual exploitation and sex trade is widespread and pervasive. The current results also found that the internet is just one of many methods of engaging in the sex trade, with the majority of respondents noting participation in both in-person and online engagement with customers. Further, respondents noted that opportunities for employment, housing, and education are critical to preventing sexual exploitation and abuse. Gender norms and expectations present unique vulnerabilities for cisgender males and trans/third gender people and often keep them from receiving adequate and supportive services. Overall, results revealed an urgent need for expansive online support services for victims. Implications and recommendations for policy makers, community members, clinicians, and other stakeholders will be discussed.

Presentation Objectives:

· Present the current landscape of online sexual exploitation among respondents

· Discuss gender differences in experiences of sexual exploitation, abuse, and sex trade

· Discuss implications for policy makers, clinicians, community members, and other stakeholders

About the Presenters

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Jarrett Davis, MA

Jarrett Davis is a social researcher and consultant with more than a decade of experience working with children and uniquely-vulnerable people groups. His work focuses on gender, vulnerability, and human identity. He was awarded the 2022 Influential Research Scholar Award from the Global Association of Human Trafficking Scholars.

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Glenn Miles, PhD

Glenn Miles is a child health nurse focused on child health, abuse and exploitation. Across three decades, Glenn has pioneered three INGOs in Cambodia and won the 2022 Influential Research Scholar award in Human Trafficking.

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Maia Mounsher

Maia Mounsher is the Thailand Director of Urban Light – an NGO based in Chiang Mai, Thailand that serves male survivors of sexual abuse and human trafficking. For almost a decade, Maia has used her Thai language skills to facilitate meaningful participation, amplify survivor voices, and advocate for grassroots organizations in Northern Thailand.

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Madeline Stenersen, PhD

Madeline Stenersen is a current Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychology at Saint Louis University. Her work focuses on the intersection between the sex trade, criminal justice, and LGBTQ+ communities in the United States and abroad. She has expertise using methods and big data to understand and prevent violence.

2023Anna SchrammSeptember 21, 2023Jarrett Davis, MA; Glenn Miles, PhD; Maia Mounsher & Madeline Stenersen, PhD21:9:45