APA Dictionary of Psychology

sex work

Updated on 03/06/2026
the consensual exchange of sexual services, performances, or intimacy-related activities for money or other compensation between adults. Sex work can include prostitution, escorting, erotic dancing, online sexual services or content creation, or professional domination or fetish services. The legal status of sex work ranges widely by country and jurisdiction, from criminalization to decriminalization and regulation.
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