The Intimacy Prism: Emotion Management among the Clients of Escorts

A growing but still limited body of research has examined the views and experiences of clients of sex workers. The current study is based on a content analysis of 2,442 postings on a popular forum where clients review sex workers and discuss their interactions with them. The article explores the reported experiences of a sample of clients who become involved in extended relationships with escorts and the emo-tional aspects of these associations. Findings show that there is a spectrum of experiences, ranging from counterfeit intimacy to an authentic emotional bond between the two parties. Many clients struggle with the unanticipated demands of an evolving romantic relationship and experience ongoing tension between its instrumental and expressive dimensions. Keywords sex work, sex industry, prostitution, emotional labor, sexuality Until recently, very little research had been conducted on the clients of sex workers. This changed with the advent of the Internet and web-based browsing, which has provided opportunities for clients to discuss their experiences with other clients o