The Hobbyist and the Girlfriend Experience: Behaviors and Preferences of Male Customers of Internet Sexual Service Providers

Abstract

This study provides descriptive information about the background characteristics, sexual preferences, attitudes, and motives of men (N = 584) who locate and contract with female Internet Sexual Service Providers (ISSP) for paid sex acts through a prostitute review site on the Web. The questionnaire-based findings showed these men preferred the “girlfriend experience” or GFE over all other personal qualities and behaviors. The study contributes to our understanding of a rapidly emerging category of men who seek sexual services on-line and their desire for mutuality and excitement in a provider who is willing to replicate some aspects of a conventional, non-remunerative romantic relationship.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Christine Milrod

CHRISTINE MILROD , Ph.D., is a licensed marriage and family therapist, AASECT-certified sex therapist and independent researcher, specializing in the study of male clients of heterosexual prostitution, female sex workers, and transgender issues.

Martin A. Monto

MARTIN A. MONTO , Ph.D., is Professor of Sociology at the University of Portland, Oregon. His research has included studies of male clients of female street prostitutes. He specializes in the intersection between social psychology, gender, and deviance. Other recent research topics include sexual assault prevention, graffiti, and homophobia.