Context-specific pathways into adult female street-based sex work in Arcadia and Sunnyside, Pretoria

Abstract

Researchers’ interest in the sex work phenomenon is not new and despite numerous studies alluding to the prevalence and nature thereof, the South African context of commercial sex work (CSW) entry remains poorly understood. Therefore, the aim of the study was to identify context-specific pathways into adult female street-based sex work in Arcadia and Sunnyside, Pretoria (Gauteng). In pursu1it of the aim of the study, the researcher endeavoured to compile a profile of sex workers, highlight possible risk factors which may shape an individual’s trajectory into CSW and describe the nature of adult female street-based sex work in Arcadia and Sunnyside, Pretoria (Gauteng). Due to the paucity of local studies regarding the research problem, objectives formulated for the study dictated the utilisation of a cross-sectional survey research design. Adult female street-based sex workers were approached in their area of work (Sunnyside and Arcadia), by means of non-probability sampling methods, where 60 face-to-face interviews were conducted utilising a structured questionnaire. Non-parametric procedures were used to determine significant relationships that could point to risk factors that play a meaningful role in shaping women’s pathways into CSW. The literature review elucidated various risk factors associated with CSW, which was subsequently supported by the current study’s findings. More than half of sex workers came from low socio-economic backgrounds (63.3%) and had poor educational levels (61.7%). Individuals who ran away from home were more likely to have experienced abuse prior to their involvement in sex work (r = - 0.3), as well as alluded to some substance use (r = - 0.3) and familial substance abuse (r = - 0.4). Sex workers who experienced abuse prior to their CSW involvement were less likely to have had previous employment (r = - 0.3). Furthermore, sex workers’ main motivation for their CSW involvement was related to financial need (93.3%) and unemployment (78.3%). Additionally, sex workers who were arrested were more likely to report experiences of police abuse. In light of the intersectionality of risk factors and the aim of the present study, the survey results alluded to four possible pathways for women into street-based CSW, which roughly comprise of economic circumstances, runaway behaviour, abuse and substance abuse. Therefore, the researcher recommends, amongst others, that the risk factors, which intersect in an across the different pathways, be considered by role-players in their service delivery to street-based sex workers.