"They Chase Us Like Dogs": Exploring the Vulnerabilities of "Ladyboys" in the Cambodian Sex Trade

Authors: Jarrett D. Davis, Glenn Miles
Publication: Dignity: A Journal of Analysis of Exploitation and Violence
Year: 2018
Category: Sexual Exploitation, Human Trafficking

Abstract

While the vulnerability of women and girls continues to be the subject of research and concern among social service providers, few attempts have been made to understand the vulnerabilities and lived experiences of transgender persons in the sex industry. Among the studies that have been done, most have focused on sexual health and their likelihood to contract or spread HIV/AIDS, often ignoring other potential vulnerabilities. This study aims to provide a broad baseline of data on the perspectives and experiences of transgendered persons in the sex trade in Phnom Penh, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of their needs, and vulnerabilities, including their trajectory into sex work and potential alternatives. In addition, this study aims to aid the development of programming and social services that meet their needs holistically, looking beyond gender expression and social identity to address often overlooked needs and vulnerabilities.

Keywords

• Cambodia
• Phnom Penh
• Sex trade
• Transgender
• LGBTQ

Key Findings

• 74% of respondents reported experiencing sexual harassment within the past year due to their gender expression.
• 55% of respondents described experiences of being forced or coerced to have sex.
• 45% reported experiencing physical assault in the past 12 months due to their gender expression.
• 39% cited being fired or refused employment within the past 12 months due to their gender identity.
• Over half of those citing stigma and discrimination and more than one-third of those citing physical assault say the police are the perpetrators of the violence.
• Respondents reported common personal feelings of self-blame, shame, and guilt.

Methodology

The study employed both purposive and snowball sampling methods to conduct 50 interviews with self-identified transgender people working in the sex trade in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The research instrument was adapted from previous studies and included questions on demographics, relationships, finances, social exclusion, stigma, migration, sexual history, substance abuse, violence, income generation, and future planning.

Implications

The research highlights the need for:

1. Development of policies and programs that address the holistic needs of transgender persons beyond just sexual health.
2. Training for police, NGOs, legal, health and social workers on treating transgender persons with dignity and respect.
3. Creation of alternative job options and skills training for transgender persons.
4. Further research on identity formation and the effects of stigma and discrimination on the psychosocial development of transgender persons.

Full Text Access

Full text available at: https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/dignity/vol3/iss2/1

Citation

Davis, J. D., & Miles, G. (2018). "They Chase Us Like Dogs": Exploring the Vulnerabilities of "Ladyboys" in the Cambodian Sex Trade. Dignity: A Journal of Analysis of Exploitation and Violence, 3(2), Article 1. https://doi.org/10.23860/dignity.2018.03.02.01

Last Updated: July 2023