More Than Just Toys: LGBTQ+ People’s Perceptions, Uses, and Purchase Motivations for Sex Toys

Kara Y., DUYAN V.

Journal of Homosexuality, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/00918369.2026.2635568
  • Journal Name: Journal of Homosexuality
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, IBZ Online, Educational research abstracts (ERA), Gender Studies Database, MLA - Modern Language Association Database, Psycinfo, Public Affairs Index, Violence & Abuse Abstracts, Social Sciences Abstracts
  • Keywords: Gender identity, perception of sex toys, purchasing sex toys, sex toys, sexual orientation, using sex toys
  • Ankara University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study investigates the perceptions, attitudes, and purchasing behaviors of LGBTQ+ people toward sex toys in Türkiye, using a mixed-methods explanatory sequential design. A total of 590 participants completed the survey, selected from seven metropolitan cities across Türkiye, representing all geographical regions. In the qualitative phase, 21 participants were chosen from the survey respondents using purposeful sampling to capture diversity in gender identity, sexual orientation, and perceptions of sex toys. The quantitative findings revealed that trans women had the highest perception scores of sex toys, while trans men had the lowest. Queer and pansexual participants showed more positive perceptions of sex toys compared to gay participants, who had the lowest scores. Higher education was associated with more favorable perceptions. Qualitative interviews highlighted motivations, emotional processes, and personal experiences, with key themes including curiosity, consumer autonomy, and the role of sex toys in sexual subjectivity. This study emphasizes the need for inclusive and accessible sex toys that better reflect the diverse experiences of LGBTQ+ people.