Digital prostitution on snapchat a study of selected prostitutes in Ghana

Abstract

In recent years, the rise of online prostitution has been fueled by technological advancements and the unregulated nature of the internet. The sex industry has readily embraced these new information technologies, providing men with enhanced access to women and children for sexual purposes. This has created a symbiotic relationship between the internet and the sex industry, with both parties benefiting from this arrangement. Traditional street-based prostitution has gradually shifted to online platforms, allowing women to engage in prostitution discreetly from the safety of their own homes. This study specifically focused on the use of Snapchat, a widely used global communication application, as a facilitator of online prostitution in Ghana. The research delved into how the internet is effectively utilized for advertising prostitution primarily through the development of social networking sites. Employing phenomenology and observation as research methodologies, the study involved the participation of six online prostitutes. The findings from the study shed light on the motivations behind engaging in online prostitution on Snapchat. Participants highlighted that the platform offered greater security, convenience, and an element of enjoyment compared to traditional methods. They utilized various methods of communication, both verbal and non-verbal, to convey their status as prostitutes to their followers on Snapchat. These methods included body advertisement, sexting, video updates, and direct posts. Overall, the study highlighted the significant role played by technological advancements and online platforms like Snapchat in the proliferation of online prostitution. It underscored the need for regulations and measures to address the challenges associated with the unregulated use of the internet in the sex industry. By understanding the dynamics of online prostitution, policymakers and stakeholders can develop more effective strategies to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure the overall well-being of society