Ethical Dilemmas in Sex Work Research

An article by Wahab, S. and Sloan, L in Research for Sex Work June 2004: 3-4.

The authors of this article argue that research into sex work is often limited to the more visible and accessible sectors such as street prostitution, and that a mix of class and gender discrimination and a theoretical bias based on radical feminist convictions leads to an overemphasis on the victimised, powerless and marginalised sex worker. This ignores the diversity and heterogeneity that exist among workers in this occupational group. As a result, mainstream studies arrive at recommendations that advocate inappropriate interventions or policies.