Experiences of Transgender/Nonbinary Young Adults Doing Online Sex Work: An Occupational Health Perspective

• DOI: 10.31235/osf.io/bu64g_v2
• Publication Date: 2025-05-09T13:28:25Z
• Authors: Gabriel R. Murchison; Aster J. Aguilar; Benjamin Eisenstadt; Allegra Gordon; Kaylia Carroll; Zachary Soulliard
• Keywords: Transgender women; Sex Work

As sex workers increasingly seek clients online, and exclusively online work (e.g., sexual content creation) expands in popularity, it is crucial to understand address workers’ occupational health concerns. There a particular need for research with marginalized workers, including transgender/nonbinary (TNB) people. Accordingly, we conducted semi-structured interviews 14 U.S.-based TNB young adults, ages 22-30 years, who had done work. We triangulated interview data through focus groups 17 clinicians advocates. Using template-style thematic analysis, developed themes addressing reasons doing (five themes); stressful dynamics (six fulfilling protective factors (two themes). Participants did mix of financial personal reasons. Stressful included pressure conform stereotypes, restrictive platform rules, stigma. Fulfilling skill/career development, self-exploration, opportunities promote healthier norms. Economic stability longer-term experience emerged as factors. Clinicians advocates should recognize the diversity adults’ experiences, oppose laws policies, advocate safety net programs that help adults maintain economic stability.