Where does risk emerge? A comparative look at sexual exploitation across queer, trans and cisgender heterosexual populations in the US

Abstract

Revisions to the Sexual Experiences Survey (SES-V) allow for assessment of sexual exploitation without heterosexual norms or gendered language. SES-V estimates show alarmingly high prevalence in queer and trans (QT) individuals. However, little evidence compares sexual exploitation characteristics across intersecting sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI). Using SES-V data from two adult samples (N = 850), we compared sexual exploitation prevalence and characteristics of across SOGI. Sexual exploitation prevalence was higher in QT individuals. Further disaggregation illuminated nuance, including significantly higher prevalence in bisexual and heterosexual cis women compared to lesbians. Sexual orientation played a role in sexual exploitation risk across genders and perpetrators were mostly cis men. Findings indicate the need for attention to nuance within the LGBTQ+ umbrella. Similarities in characteristics across SOGI suggest the role of socioecological factors. Future research should focally sample to produce diverse samples. Services should expand to support diverse sexual exploitation scenarios and provide community-level prevention. PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENT: Prevention and programming materials should be expanded to include diverse sexual exploitation scenarios and survivor-victims. Incorporating community-based practices and network-oriented approaches in sexual exploitation services can additionally help reach survivor-victims and perpetrators who would otherwise not seek out those services and influence the larger socioecological norms and beliefs that lead individuals to perpetrate sexual exploitation.