Graduate’s study exposes hidden costs of platform-based sex work

For her doctoral research, Dr Brittany Palatchie examined adult content creators on sites such as OnlyFans, analysing how algorithms, payment systems and terms of service influence income and wellbeing.

She says because digital marketplaces determine how creators earn a living and reach their audiences, this power imbalance makes it easy for platforms to change the rules with little notice and few consequences.

Dr Patachie’s research interviews reveal that creators are pushing back by forming invite-only networks on platforms like Discord, where they exchange advice, resources and emotional support. She notes that these private spaces challenge the idea that gig workers operate in isolation.

“They show new forms of quiet collective organising that strengthen workers’ voices.”

The research highlights risks that extend beyond the sex industry. Dr Palatchie recalls learning of a payment provider that shifted earnings to an offshore bank that later collapsed, leaving many creators out of pocket. She says workers need transparent terms and genuine informed consent.

“My findings strengthen calls for clearer regulation and stronger legal safeguards across the platform economy.”

Reflecting on her doctoral journey, Dr Palatchie says the data collection was the moment the project came alive.

“Talking with participants and hearing their stories put real faces to the issues I was studying. Those discussions pushed my thinking further and kept the research on course.”

Public speaking proved her toughest hurdle, but presenting at national conferences grew easier with practice. Dr Palatchie believes stepping outside of her comfort zone ultimately helped to build her confidence.

She credits Massey’s workshops on referencing, NVivo, publishing and wellbeing with keeping her project on track. The results chapter of her thesis has already been published, giving the work an international readership.

With her PhD complete, Dr Palatchie is considering a career in policy analysis. She says translating research into practical reforms could protect everyone working in the fast-growing platform economy.