Authors
Katherine LoPiccalo, Jonathan Robinson, Ethan Yeh
Publication date
2016/10/13
Book
The Oxford Handbook of the Economics of Prostitution
Description
Transactional sex is an important factor in the spread of HIV, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. This chapter reviews empirical evidence on the economic incentives that influence the decision to supply transactional sex, and it discusses several policies that may affect supply decisions. While the primary motivation for entering the transactional-sex market is the large income premium relative to other jobs, unexpected income shocks also affect sexual behavior. Based largely on a set of studies in western Kenya, the chapter shows that women are more likely to supply unprotected sex when they experience unexpected income shocks. We also show that sex workers receive informal insurance transfers from regular clients when shocks occur. Such support may induce some women into supplying sex. The chapter concludes with a discussion of possible policy options, including providing conditional cash transfers …
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