Exotic Dance in Baltimore: From Entry to HIV risk

BACKGROUND:Female sex workers are at increased risk of STI infection. Once immersed in the exotic dance industry, women are frequently presented with opportunities to engage in sex work. Although extensive research has documented the harms associated with sex work, few studies focus on the exotic dance industry.

OBJECTIVES:This study explores the factors, which facilitate women's entry into the exotic dance profession, and the mechanisms through which these forces shape dancers' subsequent HIV risk trajectory.

METHODS:Structured observations and semi-structured qualitative interviews (N=40) were conducted with exotic club dancers, doormen, managers, and bartenders from May through August, 2009. Data were analyzed using an inductive approach. Atlas-ti was used for data analysis.

RESULTS:Economic necessity and a perceived lack of alternative opportunities were the primary driving forces behind women's initiation into the profession. Drug use, physical abuse, and enjoyment of dancing were often concurrent with economic need. Social networks facilitated entry into dancing by normalizing the profession and presenting it as a solution to financial hardship. Clubs' employment practices (e.g. immediate hire and daily payment) attracted women experiencing economic vulnerability. Many of the same factors, which predisposed women to exotic dancing and facilitated their entry into the profession, made them more vulnerable to engaging in sexual risk behavior once immersed in the club environment.

CONCLUSION:Understanding the factors which facilitate women's entry into the exotic dance profession and influence sexual risk behavior once immersed in the club environment may assist in the development of targeted and effective harm reduction interventions for exotic dancers.