The association between childhood sexual abuse, engaging in prostitution before the age of 18, and persistence of offending behavior

• In Event: Child Sexual Abuse

Abstract

The research presents a criminological analysis of the link between childhood sexual abuse, maltreatment, aggressive parental behavior and initiation of prostitution before the age of 18. The research uses the method of interpretive phenomenological analysis, as a qualitative method, the interviews being carried out at the Craiova Penitentiary. The participants in the study are 7 women prisoners, who are serving sentences for committing the crimes of pimping, forming a criminal group, trafficking minors. The participants answered the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire and believe that practicing prostitution before the age of 18 did not represent a moment of naivety or a choice in ignorance, but only the realization of an activity that would save them from the aggressive social environment, the repeated escape of girls and leaving home being the only alternative to living with the abusive family. Certain individual and situational factors predict potential antisocial behavior. The research highlights the fact that victims of childhood sexual abuse experienced anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use, conduct disorders and self-mutilation, suicidal ideation and low self-control, involvement in risky criminal activities. Poor school results, absenteeism, shame and low self-esteem, poor hygiene and material deprivation have contributed to school dropout, which occurs before the age of 14. The participants believe that there are no alternatives when they start practicing prostitution. The research also presents a meta-analysis of recent studies exploring the link between childhood sexual abuse and early initiation of sexual life and prostitution. Childhood maltreatment is a strong predictor of recidivism for youth in detention centers. Additional criminological research is needed to validate the association of childhood sexual abuse and prostitution before the age of 18.

Author

• Gabriel Tanasescu, University of Craiova Faculty of Law