Would consumers favor making the workplace safer for adult film performers?

Adult film performers who do not use condoms during penetrative sex acts risk acquiring sexually-transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS. Currently, less than 1/5 of heterosexual adult films use condoms. Producers contend that sales would suffer if condoms were shown. Condoms could be removed digitally post-production, but producers argue the cost is prohibitive and consumers want “reality” on the screen.

Because little is known about the public's knowledge and viewing preferences, we developed a survey for the XBIZ.COM and XFANZ.COM websites in late 2007. We obtained 321 responses from adults 18 or older. The respondents were predominantly male (82%), American (93%), with mean age of 34 (range 18-74). Nearly half viewed 16 or more films in 2006, 27% spent $100 or more, and 77% only watched heterosexual films.

Key findings were that considerable ignorance still exists about the extent of STI risks in the industry. Most respondents felt that producers could do more to make the workplace safer. Very few thought it was the performers' exclusive responsibility to keep safe. Viewing condoms was not a turn-off for most viewers, particularly if condoms were removed post-production. Being exposed to films where condoms are used (e.g., gay male porn) seems to reduce antipathy to condom viewing and increase support for legislation to require condom use in adult film. The majority of gay respondents and nearly half of female respondents would support condom legislation. Greater awareness about STIs would likely increase support for legislation, but consumers do not want to pay more for greater safety.