NCJ Number
204088
Date Published
1998
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This chapter presents both a historical and contemporary view of prostitution, the steps taken to develop and implement a program for prostitutes, and presents a model program called Regaining Self-Esteem Stopping Prostitution by Education and Continued Treatment (RESPECT).
Abstract
The basic argument made about prostitution in this chapter is that it is a male-dominated activity that perpetuates the subordination and exploitation of women in society. Proof for their argument is presented in the historical overview of prostitution and in the discussion about prostitution today. The remainder of the chapter is devoted to describing the six steps taken to develop the RESPECT Program, a psychoeducational program for female prostitutes in northeastern Pennsylvania. Step 1 involved researching the etiology of prostitution; step 2 involved interviews with women involved in prostitution; step 3 identified the four core areas of concentration for the program that emerged from the interviews; step 4 identified focus areas to improve the self-efficacy of women involved with prostitution; step 5 selected the format for the program; and step 6 was the implementation of the pilot program in 1994. An outline of the RESPECT curriculum is presented. The 4 core areas of concentration for the program, which were identified in Step 3, make-up the 12-hour program, and include modules on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections/Contraception, Gender Roles/Societal Norms, and Sexuality/Sexual Expectations. The offender’s input into the design of the RESPECT Program is credited with the Program’s success. The status of the RESPECT Program in 1997 is positive. The Program has grown and now offers the curriculum in other regions and with other types of female offenders, in addition to women involved with prostitution. Exhibit, references