According to Salon, women are increasingly turning to sex in order to make end's meet during the recession. While the idea of a hardworking woman stripping to pay off student loans or put food on the table is titillating, the reality isn't so cheery.
My hunch is that a lot of women who might consider dipping their toes into sex work will retreat quickly once they realize that this isn't for them. Some may have a tougher time getting out. Others may realize they've found their calling.
The dynamic of exploring porn during times of desperation underscores one of my central concerns around pornography. The industry is a "last resort" for some young women who run out of options. It's a way for a woman with few skills, no prospects, or no education to make decent money. As a result, it tends to attract women with few skills, no prospects, and no education. This in itself is not necessarily a problem.
There is a problem, however. Pornography does not create the situation women find themselves in, but it can worsen the situation for unsavvy ladies. Young women who may not have the life experience or perspective to understand what it means to indelibly document herself in a sexual context are given the opportunity to do just that. And there's no going back. This is where self-advocacy and mentorship within the industry are crucial. Knowledge is power!
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