Reversion and Non-Reversion from Prostitution: Narratives of Prostitute Women in Tehran
Subject Areas : Social issues and injuries related to women and the family
MOhaddese kamyar
1
*
,
somaye khorasani
2
1 - Ph.D Student in Women's Studies, Qom University of Religions and Denominations, Iran.
2 - Assistant Professor, Department of Women's Studies, Faculty of Women and Family, Qom University of Religions and Denominations, Iran.
Keywords: Prostitution, Narrative Analysis, Reversion, Prostituted Women.,
Abstract :
This article aims to analyze the reversion from or continuation of prostitution based on the narratives of prostituted women in Tehran. The examination of participants’ experiences in the process of prostitution, encompassing the stages of initiation, continuation, and reversion, forms the main framework of the study. It explores the contexts of the formation, persistence, and stop of prostitution from the 10 perspectives of women engaged in it. The research adopts a qualitative approach, utilizing narrative analysis and thematic analysis. Participants were selected based on purposive sampling. The findings indicate that dysfunctional families, homelessness, lack of suitable housing, and absence of religious beliefs or ethical frameworks are key factors contributing to entry into prostitution. The inability to meet basic needs, economic pressures, pursuit of a specific lifestyle, psychological and emotional factors, and fulfillment of sexual needs are primary components sustaining women’s involvement in such relationships. Conversely, emotional attachments, fulfillment of essential needs, self-valuing, enhanced self-worth, strengthened ethical boundaries, and religious beliefs are significant factors facilitating exit from prostitution.
Keywords: Prostitution, Narrative Analysis, Reversion, Prostituted Women.
Introduction
Prostitution, as a social issue, is rooted in economic, cultural, and
gender inequalities within societies. This phenomenon, often accompanied by significant physical and psychological harms, not only impacts the lives of the women involved but also negatively affects the social fabric and moral values of society. In Iran, despite legal and law enforcement efforts to combat prostitution, its presence persists in major cities. Understanding the causes, contributing factors, and pathways to exiting prostitution requires a comprehensive and multidimensional approach. Exploring the lived experiences of women involved, particularly in the process of reversion, can contribute to designing more effective support and empowerment programs. This study aims to narratively analyze the experience of reversion from prostitution in Tehran, striving for a deeper understanding of this process through detailed examination of women’s narratives. The research can assist policymakers, social workers, and other stakeholders in developing more effective interventions to support women engaged in prostitution. The study of prostitution through various sociological, psychological, and women’s studies perspectives has illuminated multiple dimensions of this phenomenon. Feminist theories analyze prostitution as a consequence of patriarchal power structures and the exploitation of women, arguing that it is not a freely chosen act but a result of coercion and inequality. Economic theories emphasize the role of poverty, unemployment, and economic disparities in driving women toward prostitution, viewing it as a means of survival for some. From a psychological perspective, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and lack of emotional support can contribute to women’s engagement in prostitution, highlighting the need for therapeutic and psychological support.
Numerous studies in Iran have explored the causes, consequences, and strategies to address prostitution. Some have focused on social and economic factors leading to women’s entry into prostitution, while others have examined the lived experiences and challenges faced by these women. Qualitative studies using in-depth interviews and narrative analysis have provided deeper insights into the perspectives, emotions, and motivations of women involved. These studies indicate that factors such as addiction, violence, homelessness, and lack of social support contribute to the continuation of prostitution. Additionally, hope for a better life, financial independence, and seeking affection can sustain this condition. Conversely, factors such as attitudinal changes, improved living conditions, emotional and social support, and finding meaning and purpose in life can facilitate reversion from prostitution.
Methodology
This study employed a qualitative approach to deeply and comprehensively explore the experience of reversion from prostitution. Narrative analysis was used as a tool to understand the stories and lived experiences of women involved. Purposive sampling was conducted to ensure maximum diversity in participants’ personal and social characteristics. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with prostituted women in Tehran who had experienced reversion from this condition. Efforts were made to create a safe and supportive environment during interviews to enable participants to freely share their experiences. The interview questions were designed to cover various dimensions of the prostitution experience, including factors influencing entry, continuation, and exit.
Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, which involves identifying, analyzing, and reporting patterns within the data. The thematic analysis process included the following steps:
Familiarization with the data: Repeated and thorough reading of interview transcripts to gain a deep understanding of the content.
Initial coding: Identifying and labeling key concepts and patterns in the data.
Theme searching: Organizing codes into broader, related themes.
Theme reviewing: Evaluating and refining themes to ensure validity and coherence.
Defining and naming themes: Providing clear and concise descriptions of each theme.
Reporting findings: Presenting a summary of the main themes supported by data evidence.
To ensure the validity and reliability of the study, multiple methods were employed, including peer review, participant validation, and data triangulation. In peer review, the analysis results were evaluated by other researchers specializing in the field. In participant validation, findings were shared with participants to obtain their feedback on the accuracy and validity of the results. Data triangulation involved using multiple data sources (e.g., interviews, documents, and observations) to validate and strengthen the findings.
Findings
The findings reveal that the experience of prostitution for women involved is a complex and multidimensional process influenced by individual, familial, social, and economic factors. In the initiation stage of prostitution, the following factors were identified as significant:
Lack of familial and social support: Participants from dysfunctional families lacking emotional and financial support were more vulnerable to entering prostitution. These women often sought alternatives to address their emotional and financial deficits outside the family.
Experiences of violence and abuse: Women who experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence during childhood or adolescence were more likely to engage in prostitution. Such traumatic experiences can lead to reduced self-esteem, depression, and other psychological issues, making women more susceptible to exploitation.
Economic hardship and poverty: Women facing severe economic challenges and unable to meet their or their family’s basic needs often viewed prostitution as a solution to financial difficulties. Lack of suitable job opportunities and necessary skills frequently forced these women into prostitution.
Influence of friends and peers: Women connected with friends or peers involved in prostitution were more likely to engage in it themselves. Peer influence can promote positive attitudes toward prostitution and facilitate entry into this activity.
In the continuation stage of prostitution, the following factors were identified as sustaining involvement:
Dependence on drugs and alcohol: Women dependent on drugs or alcohol were more likely to remain in prostitution. Addiction can reduce behavioral control, increase vulnerability to abuse and violence, and diminish motivation to exit prostitution.
Lack of social support and alternative opportunities: Women without strong social support or alternative income sources were more likely to stay in prostitution, often feeling they had no other means to meet their needs.
Fear of retaliation and violence: Some women continued prostitution due to fear of retaliation or violence from clients or traffickers, living in threatening and dangerous conditions with no perceived escape.
In the reversion stage from prostitution, the following factors were identified as facilitating exit:
Emotional and social support: Women who received strong emotional and social support from family, friends, partners, or professionals were more likely to exit prostitution. Such support can enhance self-esteem, reduce depression, and strengthen motivation for change.
Employment and educational opportunities: Access to suitable employment and educational opportunities increased the likelihood of exiting prostitution by addressing economic needs, fostering independence, and improving quality of life.
Treatment for addiction and mental health issues: Women who sought treatment for addiction and mental health issues were more likely to exit prostitution. Treatment can reduce substance dependency, improve mental health, and enhance coping abilities.
Changes in attitudes and values: Women who shifted their attitudes and values, recognizing the importance of their health, safety, and well-being, were more likely to exit prostitution. These changes can increase motivation to leave prostitution and build a new life.
Discussion and Conclusion
The findings align with previous studies on prostitution, highlighting its multifaceted nature and the need for a comprehensive approach to address it. The experience of prostitution is fraught with challenges and harms, necessitating holistic support. Based on the findings, intervention programs for preventing prostitution and supporting affected women should focus on strengthening family structures, reducing poverty and inequality, providing education and employment opportunities, and offering psychological and social support. Policymakers and non-governmental organizations should collaborate to design and implement programs to empower prostituted women and provide suitable employment opportunities. These programs should address the specific needs of affected women, equipping them with skills to secure jobs and build new lives. Additionally, awareness campaigns about the risks of prostitution and prevention strategies should be promoted, particularly targeting youth and adolescents to encourage informed decision-making.
This study faced limitations, such as a limited sample size and a focus on women in Tehran, which restricts the generalizability of the findings. Employing mixed methods (qualitative and quantitative) could provide a more comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. Future research should use larger and more diverse samples to explore various dimensions of prostitution and reversion in other communities.
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