NCJ Number
95958
Journal
Victimology Volume: 9 Issue: 2 Dated: (1984) Pages: 211-221
Date Published
1984
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Teenage male prostitutes, a group seldom available for serious study, are examined by the authors on two levels: (1) differing typologies of methods of prostitution, and (2) street behavioral patterns. The study consisted of twenty-eight adolescent males, known to be involved in prostitution, who participated in a recorded interview schedule designed to examine their family history, parental and sibling relationship patterns, school involvement, and friendship patterns.
Abstract
In general, the twenty-eight adolescents report troubled family histories; their predominant memories being those of parental fighting, drinking, and neglect regardless of parental marital status. They report poor relationships with their families, adults, and friends. They perceive themselves as isolated, victimized, and unsuccessful in school and with peers. All this suggests that those concerned with providing treatment for this population should recognize that though the current sexual victimization of prostitution compounds treatment issues, it may not represent the principle issue of the youth's life. The primary therapeutic issues are not necessarily sexual nor typical adolescent issues. They are much more likely to be the more fundamental issues of arrested development. In conclusion, it is noted that survival needs must be met before more nuanced psychological problems can be addressed. (Author abstract)