Experience of young adult prostitutes

Abstract

The study describes factors that have led young adult prostitutes to prostitution and their experiences. The study sought to understand better and holistically this marginalized group as they are rarely given an opportunity to share their experiences. The study is guided by the following research questions: 1) why did the selected young adult prostitutes get involved in prostitution. 2) what are the experiences of the selected young adult prostitutes. Data was collected mainly through interviews using a semi-structured question guide. Observation was done to help understand the environment of the informants better. Five young adult prostitutes were selected purposively for this study. Two aspects of learning regarding young adults prostitutes emerged from this study. 1) the need for survival 2) the need for love, belonging and esteem. This study recommends that there is a need for effective and therapeutic rehabilitation programs at the rehabilitation centres, a more practical Act for this marginalized group and introduction of sex education in schools.