NCJ Number
139319
Journal
Canadian Journal of Law and Society Volume: 6 Dated: (1991) Pages: 137- 164
Date Published
1991
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This analysis of street prostitution in Canada challenges the conclusion of Brannigan and Fleischman that prostitution is mainly an adult occupation motivated by financial gain and is not pathological work undertaken by the emotionally damaged and the young.
Abstract
Brannigan and Fleischman reached this conclusion after a review of research on prostitution and prostitution law enforcement in Canada. However, a review of the research that they considered as well as studies that they did not discuss suggests an alternative explanation for street prostitution in Canada. This analysis suggests that although the majority of Canadian street prostitutes are adult, most of them began their careers as youths. In addition, a much larger proportion of street prostitutes than nonprostitutes report childhood sexual abuse and other abuse. Finally, the concept that prostitution is a choice should be understood in terms of the social structures that circumscribe that choice. Tables, footnotes, and 38 references (Author abstract modified)