Representation of prostitutes in Thai songs, 2019–2024

This research article analyzes the representation of prostitutes in eight Thai songs (2019–2024) from YouTube, using the concepts of ‘Representation’ and ‘Literary Devices’ as the analytical framework. The findings reveal a complex and often contradictory portrayal. The representations encompass six main themes: agency and its constraints; victimization and vulnerability; power dynamics, negotiation, and resistance; sexual objectification and commodification; class and economic dimensions; and social stigma, sin, and exclusion. These songs serve as a crucial social outlet, reflecting society’s imaginings and perspectives on prostitutes, and facilitating a more profound understanding of these cognitive and affective dimensions. While many representations portray prostitutes through the lens of victimization, objectification, and social stigma stemming from socio-economic pressures, a significant counter-narrative also emerges. Some songs actively present prostitutes as individuals possessing agency, engaging in negotiation and resistance to challenge societal norms. This latter trend is particularly salient amidst ongoing social movements in Thailand advocating for widespread legal reforms related to prostitution.