Do you know how to Cheong? Neutralization techniques adopted by new clients of sex workers

This study examines the discourses of male clients of female sex workers and the application of Sykes and Matza (1957) techniques of neutralization used by male clients to normalize their ‘deviant’ activities. Part of this study examines the discourses of members from two Internet forums, where members assist other members in uncovering the hidden areas of sex work through their discussions and sharing of commercial sex experiences online. This study suggests that these discourses aim at inculcating a sense of normalcy to their ‘deviant’ activity as suggested by Sykes and Matza. This qualitative study of 35 Malaysian men obtained through snowball sampling from 2015 till 2018 explores their usage of online information in assisting with the purchase of female sex workers; examination of these men's offline discourses and behaviours when purchasing sex workers was conducted through face to face intensive interviews and participation observation. Participants use techniques of neutralization to overcome fear and societal distain when participating in commercial sex activities.RésuméLe travail sexuel en Malaisie est perçu comme une activité immorale en butte à la réprobation sociale. Les lois malaisiennes visant à lutter contre le travail sexuel ne sont pas parvenues à l’éradiquer mais elles ont plutôt eu pour effet de le faire basculer dans la clandestinité où il prospère. Les clients des travailleuses du sexe ont désormais recours aux nouvelles technologi...
Source: Sexologies - Category: Sexual Medicine Source Type: research