An Exploratory Study of Adolescent Pimping Relationships

Abstract

In the last decade, public attention to the problem of commercially sexually exploited children (CSEC) has grown. This exploratory qualitative study examines adolescent pimping relationships, including how urban youth perceive these types of relationships. Study data stem from interviews with three young adult informants with first-hand knowledge of adolescent pimping, as well as three gender-specific focus group discussions with a convenience sample of 26 urban high school students who have first- or second-hand knowledge of adolescent pimping. Findings indicate that respondents believe teen pimping exists in their schools and communities, and that those exploited typically do not self-identify as victims. Respondents also believed that younger pimps are more likely to use violence to induce compliance among the girls they exploit, whereas older pimps are more likely to emotionally manipulate young women into exploitation. Further, respondents indicated that some young people agreed to exchange or sell sex for money as a favor to their boyfriends or girlfriends, and some young people believed that selling sex is acceptable under certain circumstances. The growing attention to CSEC provides an important opportunity to expand prevention efforts to reach those most affected and at risk for exploitation. The findings highlight critical areas for augmenting traditional content in school-based HIV/STI and sexuality education classes.

Understanding and Responding to the Needs of Commercially Sexually Exploited Youth

“…Another described path into sex trafficking is through exploitation by sex traffickers, commonly referred to by commercially sexually exploited youth as “pimp,” “boyfriend,” “sugar daddy,” or “daddy.” 16,24 Youth report that pimps may be men or women, known acquaintances, a “boyfriend” with likely ulterior motives from the beginning, or strangers. 16,18 Many traffickers use social media sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, to recruit youth.…”

“…15 One study of trafficked youth described that younger pimps tend to use violence or threats against girls, while older, likely more experienced pimps were known to manipulate youth through “smooth talking,” promises of romance, and emotional control. 16 In many cases, a vulnerable youth is enticed into a relationship with a “boyfriend” through gifts, dates, and attention. A “trauma bond” is then formed with the exploiter, in which the youth is willing to do what the exploiter asks, including sex acts with others, to preserve the relationship.…”

“…15 Believing that the relationship is consensual and special, many sexually exploited youth develop feelings of obligation to their trafficker, unaware that they are being exploited. 2,15,16 …”

From Exploitation to Industry: Definitions, Risks, and Consequences of Domestic Sexual Exploitation and Sex Work Among Women and Girls

“…In a study of 100 women controlled by pimps at that time in Chicago, 64 women viewed their pimp’s current relationship as a boyfriend, and of the 71 women recruited into prostitution by a pimp, 23 of them indicated their partner or boyfriend served as their primary recruiter (Raphael et al, 2010). Yet another study indicates that young people may agree to sell sex as a favor to their boyfriend or girlfriend and that this is completely socially acceptable under these circumstances (Anderson, Coyle, Johnson, & Denner, 2014). These studies support an intersection between a woman’s (abusive) intimate partner and her trafficker.…”

“…Women and girls are made vulnerable to sex trading and sexual exploitation because of a lack of other economic options (Anderson et al, 2014; Cobbina & Oselin, 2011; Tyler and Johson, 2006). Some believe they are obtaining a form of formal or informal employment (i.e.…”