The STOPLight

Different dynamics: Boys in prostitution

Prostitution is a complex issue surrounded by a confusion of emotions, stereotypes, and unknowns. Much has been researched and written about women in prostitution, and many programs have been developed and funded to help them get out.

But what about boys and young men in prostitution? Who are they? Where do they come from? How do they get involved? Why do they do it? Who are their customers? Who is helping them to get out? What can be done to prevent it?

Prostitution among homeless boys is prevalent, but very secretive according to Bob Nelson, program supervisor of Project Offstreets. "With females in prostitution, " there is nearly always a structure -- a pimp is directing their actions and taking the money. With males, they act alone and keep the money themselves. In their own minds, they are in control because no one is forcing them."

This perspective was echoed by Gerry Tyrrell, a case manager with Youth and AIDS Projects. "Most young men work independently; usually there is no pimp. The abuse dynamics can be different, more subtle, than for women."

According to Susan Phillips, a program director for Lutheran Social Service's transitional housing program, homeless youth are in a survival mode -- and they quickly learn their body is their currency. They often exchange sex for food to eat, clothes to wear, or a place to stay. Nelson feels most young males involved in prostitution do not identify as being gay, or perhaps they are ambivalent about their sexuality and struggling to figure it out.

As a gay male, Tyrrell has a different perspective. "Many youth who identify as gay or bisexual feel alienated from their school, home, and community environments because of their sexuality -- so they escape to gay areas in major cities. Maybe they feel they'll have more opportunity for connections with others like themselves. Homelessness makes them vulnerable. Often, these youth have never worked and don't have strong experience finding or holding a job."

In this state of uncertainty, out of desperation, many of the young men turn to prostitution for survival. Some work the streets or hang out in areas frequented by men who pay for sex. Others work through outcall and massage services or have pagers and put ads in the backs of gay newspapers. Tyrrell notes that some young men have regular jobs and use prostitution to supplement their income. Others dabble in it for perceived excitement, experimentation or validation. Those who have friends to live with, a job, or a family willing to help financially, usually do not choose prostitution.

Both Tyrrell and Nelson note that drugs and alcohol play a role on all levels of prostitution. Some youth use them to block out their inner feelings and pain. Others are hard core drug addicts who support their habit by selling sex.

Customers of boys in prostitution are men -- some openly gay, but many (maybe most) are considered heterosexual, have wives and children. Nelson's opinion is that if a man is specifically seeking boys for a sexual encounter, he is probably gay but not out. Tyrrell feels that because of society's homophobia, these men deceive their families and keep their true sexual orientation a deep secret.

When asked what concerned adults and family members can do about the problem of boys and youth in prostitution, each spoke from their personal or professional experience.

Gerry Tyrrell said, "The number one thing is to combat homophobia. In the long run, it is driving young men into prostitution. They run away because people are intolerant of gays. Number two would be to help religious institutions and schools become more open and affirming of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth."

Bob Nelson encourages learning as much as possible about the problems, then urging legislators and others to address service gaps and funding issues.

Besides urging state and federal officials to reauthorize funding for current social services, Susan Phillips feels the solution is closer to home. "Take care of the kids on your own block. Be the one who takes time to listen. Be a positive role model. Help create healthy community recreational opportunities. Youth need to feel they belong to be accepted as they are."

by Joan Nitz

Project Offstreets
212 North Second Street
Minneapolis, MN 55404
(612) 338-3103

Youth and AIDS Projects
428 Oak Grove
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 627-6820

Lutheran Social Service
Transitional Housing Program
2395 University Avenue West
Suite 300-E
St. Paul, MN 55108