Content analysis results of online male sex workers’ reactions to and engagement with COVID-19*
Theme | Subtheme | Example | n (%) |
Risk reduction | 181 (85.8) | ||
In-person service discontinuation | ‘Due to COVID-19 I will not be doing any in person modeling, massaging, etc.’ | 87 (41.2) | |
Virtual sex work services offered† | ‘Webcam sessions only provided during COVID-19.’ | 82 (38.9) | |
COVID-19 status disclosure | ‘Tested for Covid 19 antibody 04/28/20 negative.’ | 44 (20.9) | |
Enhanced client requirements | ‘Social distancing is priority so screening clients to be safe.’ | 26 (12.3) | |
Restricted sex work travel | ‘Travels are subject to change if further government restrictions put in place.’ | 11 (5.2) | |
Social reactions | 51 (24.2) | ||
Expressions of solidarity | ‘We can meet after! For your safety and mine. For now let's help each other stay safe.’ | 20 (9.5) | |
Dismiss or downplay pandemic | ‘Grounded and ready to play #Covid mode’; ‘Don’t let COVID ruin all our fun!’ | 31 (14.7) |
*Analysis conducted using 211 unique profiles that referenced COVID-19.
†Virtual services in this context include only those with specific reference to COVID-19.