Although I do not you usually post on massageplanet.net, simply because I feel I don't usually have much added value to give. After reading this thread, and what Lynn most recently posted, I feel that she has touched upon something. The need for affection. I think this is a large reason why men hobby. Yes there are the stereotypical hobbist that are out there to just see what they can get. Just like there are the providers that are out to see what they can get out of a client. However, I believe that the need for affection is a large factor in why we hobby. I am not speaking for everyone, but I bet it is true in most cases. Personally, yes I do enjoy a session with an MPA when she applies some personality and affection to the session. That is not say that I instantaneously become head over heels for her. I have learned that most times, having a true "relationship" with an MPA is not in the cards. Not to say it is unheard of, just difficult. Mostly due to the fact that, I had met them in this environment first, as opposed to elsewhere.
I have had the debate many times with MPA's, that I have gotten to know, about there views on dating a client. I have always expressed and truly believe, that if someone loves you, they also trust you. They trust you enough that you are being faithful to them, even in this line of business. I also believe that is a two way street. I, for one, made up my mind a long time ago that, as long as I remained single, it was "ok" to hobby. As soon as I was in a relationship, even if it was only a potential one, I would refrain from hobbying. This is a rule that I have always stood by. I think it is the same from a MPA's point of view (not to speak for Lynn or anyone else), in that they have rules and morale's that they believe in and stick to. Everyone's are different, but as long as they stick to them, how can anyone judge.
That need for affection is something that everyone has. If you are in a relationship, and are able to receive (and give) that affection, great. However, for those of us that are not able to get the affection that we desire, I believe that hobbying helps to full fill that need. That to me, is something that no one can judge a person on. The need for affection is a human need. Everyone has it, we just seek it out in different ways.