Pimp-Controlled Prostitution: Still an Integral Part of Street Life

Author: Williamson, Celia & Cluse-Tolar, Terry

Abstract: Street-level prostitution is comprised of both pimp-controlled prostitution and independent entrepreneurial prostitution. Although much of the more recent research has focused on the latter group, this work reports on a qualitative study designed to understand pimp-related violence to women involved in pimp-controlled prostitution. In addition, this work contributes to the understanding of the relationships between pimps and prostitutes, the roles that each play, and the social rules of the business. Because these women constitute a significant number of those involved in street-level prostitution, more research is called for that focuses on pimp-controlled prostitution.

Keywords: street life, prostitution, sex industry, sex work, pimp