Understanding Survival Sex Engagement Among Sexual and Gender Minority Young Adults Experiencing Homelessness: A Seven-City Study Using Individual and Social Network Perspectives

Survival sex (i.e. trading sex for survival needs) among young adults experiencing homelessness (YAEH) is a critical social and public health issue. With as many as 40% of the 4.2 million homeless youth in the U.S. potentially relying on survival sex to meet sustenance needs, and as much as 40% also identifying as a sexual and/or gender minority (SGM), this already vulnerable population faces increased risks for sexually transmitted infections (STI), substance misuse, and physical and sexual trauma. However, nuanced scholarship on this intersection is limited. This study examined the correlates of survival sex involvement among self-identified SGM-YAEH (N = 425) as influenced by initiation to homelessness, system involvement, history of mental health, ACES, and their social network composition. Results suggest that there was high survival sex involvement. Running away from home, mental health and street victimization were associated with survival sex involvement. Romantic partners and peers met while experiencing homelessness were associated with survival sex, whereas peers who were engaged in educational or employment scenarios did not show significant associations among SGM-YEAH youth. Implications and recommendations are discussed.