NCJ Number
98765
Date Published
1984
Length
64 pages
Annotation
After analyzing the characteristics of juvenile prostitutes, their pimps, and customers, this book describes the typical family background of the juvenile prostitute and the treatment afforded at a long-term residential facility.
Abstract
The characteristics and motivations of juvenile girls who go into prostitution as well as the dynamics of pimps who employ juveniles and customers who seek them out is described. Legal efforts to control prostitution are then briefly discussed. The typical family background of juvenile prostitutes uses case studies to document patterns of incest, physical abuse, structural instability, and emotional deprivation in the families of juvenile prostitutes. An overall abusive sexual dynamic is noted in such families. In considering treatment for the juvenile prostitute, the authors describe the long-term residential treatment program in which they have been involved. The treatment philosophy focuses on developing trusting relationships between staff and residents and addressing the trauma of abuse and unexpressed feelings of guilt, shame, anger, and worthlessness. Treatment is voluntary and consists primarily of group therapy conducted five evenings weekly for 2 hours with all residents present. Individual therapy sessions are usually conducted twice weekly, often with two staff members present. The staff members, paraprofessionals with communication skills, enthusiasm, and patience are expected to have a basic knowledge about working with juveniles. In the absence of structured knowledge and training for persons who work specifically with juvenile prostitutes, much of the staff training is derived from guided and interpreted experience gained from working in the program.