Male prostitution is a form of sex work consisting of the act or practice of men providing sexual services in return for payment. Although clients can be of any gender, the vast majority are older males looking to fulfill their sexual needs.
In the last century, male sex work has seen various advancements such as popularizing new sexual acts, methods of exchange, and carving out a spot in cinema. The terms used for male prostitutes generally differ from those used for females.
Some terms vary by clientele or method of business. Where prostitution is illegal or taboo , it is common for male prostitutes to use euphemisms which present their business as providing companionship, nude modeling or dancing, body massage, or some other acceptable fee-for-service arrangement. Thus one may be referred to as a male escort , gigolo implying female customers , rent boy , hustler more common for those soliciting in public places , model , or masseur.
A more dated term for a man who dressed similarly to female sex workers and tried to pass as a woman is known as a fairy. Male clients, especially those who pick up prostitutes on the street or in bars, are sometimes called johns or tricks. Michel Dorais describes four types of working patterns that male prostitutes usually fall into in his book, Rent Boys: the World of Male Sex Trade Workers.
Surveys show that male sex workers often report getting into prostitution after running away from home, due to unfortunate home situations. After running away to major cities with no money, some resort to prostitution to take care of themselves. However, extreme poverty is not the only reason why men and boys partake in prostitution. Nonetheless, some do believe that sex, whether casual or transactional, is a way to acquire affection and attention, which can influence their sexual activity.
