Rules, gender dynamics, and structure of sex market facilitators

This paper explores sex market facilitators' (SMFs') sex trade rules or 'facilitation styles,' work dyads, the use of violence, and attitudes about sex workers. We interviewed 37 SMFs in New York City who facilitated sex work 'long-term' (for at least five years). SMFs exhibited a range of trade rules, many of which were about maintaining control over the work setting and sex workers. Those who worked in groups of two or more had more controlling styles that were rarely conflict-free. SMFs whose operations had more organizational structure often used main sex workers as extensions of control and used violence to enforce rules. Those with controlling behaviors justified them in gendered ways, e.g., sex workers' competency to do their jobs, manage their own money, and organize their lives. In contrast, SMFs with less controlling styles did not rely on violence and often included sex workers in decisions. Many 'long-term' SMFs have co-offending groups and use control and violence to enforce rules. The results of this study show patterns in SMF operations unique to how lower socioeconomic status and more street-based businesses in the sex trade function.