Through a Different Lens: Occupational Health of Sex-Working Young Trans Women.

Authors :: Fisher MR
Turner C
McFarland W
Breslow AS
Wilson EC
Arayasirikul S
Source :: Transgender health [Transgend Health] 2023 Mar 31; Vol. 8 (2), pp. 200-206. Date of Electronic Publication: 2023 Mar 31 (Print Publication: 2023).
Publication Year :: 2023
Abstract: Purpose: Sex work is a common form of work among young trans women (YTW). Methods: Using an occupational health frame, we measured associations between demographics, sex work, and vocational outcomes in 18-month visit data from the SHINE study ( n =263, San Francisco). Results: Overall, 41.8% reported lifetime sex work, primarily escorting/paid sex. Motivations included "better pay" and "can't get a job due to gender discrimination." Occupational injuries included anxiety (53.6%) and depression (50%), with significantly higher relative risk for YTW doing multiple types of sex work. Criminalization experiences (i.e., incarceration, arrests, and police interaction) were common. Conclusion: Results echo calls for sex worker-affirming mental health care for YTW. Competing Interests: No competing financial interests exist. (© Marla Renee Fisher et al., 2023; Published by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.)