The Exchange of Sex Out of Necessity: A Look at Transactional Sex in Prison Settings

Abstract

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This study explores the exchange of sex among female prisoners in Spanish prisons. Using quantitative and qualitative research methods, a sample of 1544 questionnaires was obtained from female prisoners, and 126 interviews with professionals and prisoners. The results show that 5.1% had exchanged sex for goods. The logistic regression indicated that having a partner who bought goods in prison meant a 5.5 times greater likelihood of the exchange of sex. The interviews revealed four situations: (1) survival sex to meet basic needs without emotional attachment, (2) emotional sexual relationships involving the exchange of sex and affection for goods, (3) relationships involving the exchange of sex with inmates within the prison recognised as economic transactions, with or without an emotional relationship, (4) sexual transactions with people outside the prison. Relationships within prison are unequal in many respects, due to the minority of women in prisons and because they often form a vulnerable group that requires protection to avoid exploitative sexual relationships.