Study: Most pimps suffered abuse

RED EYE
page 8
September 16, 2010
Chicago Tribune
Study: Most pimps suffered abuse

Two dozen former Chicago pimps and madams were paid $250.00 for 2 hours by DePaul University researchers for a study on sex trades. The study proves that many involved in the sex trade had suffered physical and sexual abuse as children. Study found 88% of prostitute suffered physical abuse growing up and 76% endured sexual abuse . Because of the abuse it lead them to leave home in an early age. Where they felt the only option was to turn to prostitution to survive, trading sex for money . Of the 25 Interviewed, 7 were women, all victims of violence and prostitution. Information was given on programs to help these victims of the sex trade. One of the programs is being run an advocate named Myer Powell . He has been running Darts prostitution intervention team for 20 years. Another program that helps victims of prostitution is the dream Catcher Foundation.

This is a very sad article concluding that some type of abuse plays a big part of how many fall into the sex trade. Their reason is not having anyone to turn to but prostitution to survive. What I don't understand is how these victims turn into victimizers by brining others into this abusive sex trade. I am happy to know that there's help out there for these victims of prostitution, by assisting with shelter and finding them a job for a decent living. I think we need programs in our schools that help kids recognize abuse and letting them know someone is always there to listen and help in any way.