The importance of physical touch, hugs, and intimacy is so great, that I've long since been convinced that sex work should be legalized. Why? Because often people will engage with a sex worker purely for this kind of intimate contact, even if it's not sexual at all. Can you imagine a depressed 40-50 something that is lonely, and just wants someone to hold him, stroke his hair, and tell him it will be all right? I'm willing to bet that's like 30% of the clientele

[–] m3t00@lemmy.world 2 points 3 months ago

yes. spent a few years in Germany 30 years ago. their approach to prostitution seemed much kinder for all involved. regulate/tax everybody wins. US treats it like a religious sin and it destroys lives and drives everything underground. Like the 'drug wars'. I spent a month in hospital and remember so many hugs from friends/family/coworkers that helped me feel loved and helped me deal with long recovery. Psychological benefits are huge. sex work should be legal and would reduce crime rates.