The Social and Linguistic Landscape of Male Sex Workers: Exploring Lived Realities and Negotiation Strategies

Abstract

This research explores the lived experiences of male sex workers with a focus on understanding the challenges they face, the coping strategies they employ, as well as the language they usually use when interacting with clients. Employing a qualitative multiple case study approach, the methodology involves in-depth interviews of five male sex workers whose age ranges from 19-21 years old and natives of San Juan, Southern Leyte, Philippines. This approach facilitates a comprehensive understanding of their experiences, coping mechanisms, and the vocabulary they employ when communicating with clients. The key results reveal that these informants encounter significant challenges, including financial difficulties, thus resulting in engaging in this profession, moreover, they also face discrimination, social exclusion, and safety risks. Despite these challenges, these male sex workers navigate their lives as sex workers by using coping strategies such as discrimination acceptance, socializing and enjoyment with peers, and self-confidence and resiliency. A total of forty-eight (48) expressions emerged from the collected data. These expressions were categorized into: Introductory Signals, Name Substitution, and Sexual Services.