NCJ Number
196628
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 8 Issue: 9 Dated: September 2002 Pages: 1016-1043
Date Published
September 2002
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This article describes violence against young prostitutes and identifies issues concerning programs developed for them.
Abstract
This research uses a mainstream qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews. Forty-seven adult women that had become involved in prostitution before age 18 were interviewed in 1999 and 2000. The interviews included questions about the entry into prostitution, patterns of involvement, service needs, and the impact of involvement. The respondents came from across three Canadian provinces. Results show that women that became involved in prostitution as girls had high rates of violence perpetrated against them. They encountered abuse during their childhood prior to their involvement as prostitutes. During their involvement in prostitution, they were frequently the targets of pimps, johns, other prostituted women, and intimate partners as well as representatives from mainstream society and members of the police. Most of the women had been involved with the child welfare system as children and their experiences left them suspicious of any helping agency. Half of the women reported violence or threats of violence from pimps while involved in prostitution. More than half reported experiencing violence from customers or “johns.” These numbers were likely underestimated. Some disclosed their own physical violence toward others. The women repeatedly referred to health conditions such as HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, addiction, and violent injuries. Most of the attempts to exit prostitution occurred after a significant or traumatic event, such as pregnancy, arrest, or a “bad date.” Respondents admitted that violence was a significant and real barrier to leaving their abusive environment. Programs available for youth involved in prostitution are often not specialized to address their needs. Better strategies need to be created to address violence against girls and young women exploited through prostitution. These strategies should be different from those in adult services and use nontraditional service delivery modes. Early intervention is important to prevent the serious and negative effects described by these women. 39 references