A sex worker is a person who provides sex work , either on a regular or occasional basis. The term "sex worker" was coined in by sex worker activist Carol Leigh. The term "sex worker" is used by some types of sex workers i. Using the term "sex worker" rather than "prostitute" also allows more members of the sex industry to be represented and helps ensure that individuals who are actually prostitutes are not singled out and associated with the negative connotations of "prostitute".
In addition, choosing to use the term "sex worker" rather than "prostitute" shows ownership over the individuals' career choices. Some argue that those who prefer the term "sex worker" wish to separate their occupation from their person.
Describing someone as a sex worker recognizes that the individual may have many different facets, and are not necessarily defined by their job. The term is strongly opposed, however, by many who are morally or politically opposed to the sex industry, such as social conservatives , anti-prostitution feminists , and other prohibitionists.
Sex work can take the form of prostitution, stripping or lap dancing , performance in pornography, phone or internet sex, or any other exchange of sexual services for financial or material gain. Sex workers who include sexual intercourse as part of their services are considered full-service sex workers.
Sex workers can act independently as individuals, work for a company or corporation, or work as part of a brothel. All of the above can be undertaken either by free choice or by coercion, or, as some argue, along a continuum between conflict and agency. Sex workers may be any gender and exchange sexual services or favors for money or other gifts.
