Sociology and Criminology of Prostitution

This chapter examines prostitution using theoretical frameworks from sociology and criminology. We first discuss the criminology of female prostitutes through the lens of leading theories such as strain, feminist, differential association and labeling theory. Furthermore, the chapter explores the stigma behind the occupation of prostitutes, while considering supply-side public policy. Additionally, we investigate the responses of several social groups such as social workers, feminist groups, religious groups and nonprofits when women want to leave the industry