I got told I was 'better than this' today, and I immediately thought of this thread
I know I go on about it a
lot, but I think the stereotypical image of streetwalkers has a lot to do with things. As you grow up and learn about the world, that's the image you have when you think of prostitutes, so it's ingrained.
Although then a man might get into the punting scene (I don't like the term punting, dunno why, but that's a separate thread! I use it, because it fits, but I find it weird and a bit creepy. Anyhoo...) and find out about parlours, agencies and independents etc, the image of the prostitute shivering on the street corner, Band-Of-Gold-style, occasionally being murdered and scrapping with pimps is still with them.
A strange PS - the guy who told me I was better than this did so on AW directIM, I've taken to logging in on that when I'm doing something on my computer. Bugger all money in it, but every little helps. Anyway, it was hours ago he said it, and he's just popped back up as I am typing this. Ooooh, spooky