What is Cottaging?
Cottaging, a term that originated in British English, refers to the act of seeking sexual encounters in public restrooms, particularly gay men meeting for anonymous sex in these locations. The term ‘cottaging’ is synonymous with cruising, which involves looking for sexual partners in public places.
History of Cottaging
The practice of cottaging dates back to the 18th century, with public bathrooms becoming known as meeting spots for men seeking illicit encounters. While initially associated with gay men, cottaging has evolved to include individuals of various sexual orientations.
Legal Issues
Despite its longstanding history, cottaging remains illegal in many countries due to laws prohibiting public indecency and lewd behavior. Offenders can face legal consequences such as fines or imprisonment.
Examples of Cottaging
One famous case of cottaging involved British politician George Michael, who was arrested for engaging in a sexual act in a public restroom in 1998. This incident brought widespread attention to the practice of cottaging.
Statistics on Cottaging
While accurate statistics on cottaging are difficult to obtain due to its secretive nature, surveys suggest that a significant number of individuals have engaged in or considered cottaging at some point in their lives.
