Uncovering Intentions to Exit Prostitution: Findings from a Qualitative Study

Andrea N. Cimino

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Exiting prostitution is a process for which we have little empirical understanding. This study provides evidence of a process-oriented theory of intentions to exit prostitution that operationalizes key aspects of exiting. Interviews from 16 persons formerly and actively selling sex helped define intentions to exit as a combination of glamorization and risk-recognition attitudes, stigma from significant others, one’s own resilient self-efficacy beliefs, and agency. Findings contribute to our understanding of the cognitive changes that occur when a person decides to leave prostitution, which can be used to inform a readiness to exit assessment and interventions that increase intentions to exit.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)606-624
Number of pages19
JournalVictims and Offenders
Volume14
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 4 2019

Keywords

  • Prostitution
  • integrative model of behavioral prediction
  • sex work
  • template analysis

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pathology and Forensic Medicine
  • Health(social science)
  • Applied Psychology
  • Law

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