Project – Prostitution as a social problem.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

. Prostitution, often referred to as the “oldest profession,” has long been debated in terms of legality, morality, and social impact. Scholars frequently approach prostitution through the lens of social problem theory, which defines a social problem as a condition viewed as undesirable by a significant portion of society and that requires collective action to resolve. According to Weitzer (2009), the perception of prostitution as a social problem largely depends on cultural norms, public opinion, and institutional responses. In societies where prostitution is criminalized, it is more often framed as a threat to moral order, while in places where it is regulated, the focus shifts to labor rights and health.

A dominant theme in the literature is the connection between prostitution and gender inequality. Feminist scholars often frame prostitution as a manifestation of patriarchal structures that commodify women’s bodies. Farley et al. (2003) argue that prostitution inherently involves coercion and exploitation, especially of women and girls from marginalized backgrounds. They contend that most individuals enter sex work not by choice but due to economic necessity, trauma, or systemic inequalities, thereby reinforcing its classification as a social problem rather than a freely chosen occupation.

In contrast, some scholars argue for the de-stigmatization and decriminalization of sex work, highlighting the agency of individuals involved in the trade. Weitzer (2012) presents a “sex work” perspective that challenges the victim narrative, emphasizing that not all sex work is exploitative and that many sex workers demand rights and recognition rather than rescue. This perspective suggests that viewing prostitution solely as a social problem may overlook the complex realities of those who engage in it willingly and the potential harms caused by criminalization.

Another critical concern raised in the literature is the public health implications of prostitution. Studies link unregulated prostitution to the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), violence, and lack of access to healthcare (Decker et al., 2015). These health risks often stem not from prostitution itself but from its criminalization, which forces the practice underground. According to Shannon et al. (2015), countries with supportive legal and health policies for sex workers report lower rates of violence and better health outcomes, suggesting that addressing prostitution as a public health issue rather than a criminal one may reduce its harmful effects.

Human trafficking is often conflated with prostitution, complicating efforts to address both issues effectively. Scholars such as Bernstein (2007) argue that anti-trafficking campaigns frequently use moral panic to frame all sex work as inherently exploitative, which can lead to policies that harm voluntary sex workers. This conflation not only obscures the real differences between consensual and coerced sex work but also undermines the support systems for trafficking victims who may not want to be categorized alongside voluntary workers.

Overall, the literature on prostitution reveals a deeply contested field shaped by competing moral, legal, feminist, and public health narratives. While there is consensus that prostitution intersects with broader social issues such as poverty, gender inequality, and systemic marginalization, there is significant debate over how best to address it. Whether viewed as a human rights issue, a public health concern, or a symptom of deeper social problems, prostitution remains a focal point of social discourse and policy-making.

• Statement of the Problem

Prostitution continues to be a complex and contentious issue around the world, straddling the lines between legality, morality, human rights, and public health. It is frequently categorized as a social problem due to its association with crime, exploitation, poverty, and gender-based violence. While some societies treat prostitution as a criminal act, others have adopted harm-reduction or legalization models. Regardless of the legal stance, prostitution remains a point of social concern because it often involves individuals who are marginalized, economically disadvantaged, and vulnerable to abuse.

One of the central problems related to prostitution is its close association with exploitation and human trafficking. Many individuals, particularly women and girls, are coerced or manipulated into the sex trade through force, deception, or economic desperation. This raises ethical and legal concerns about consent, freedom, and human dignity. When prostitution is tied to organized crime, trafficking networks, and abuse, it creates a dangerous environment for both the sex workers and society at large, reinforcing its status as a social issue that requires intervention.

The legal ambiguity surrounding prostitution further complicates efforts to address its associated problems. In countries where prostitution is illegal, sex workers often operate underground, making them more vulnerable to violence, police harassment, and poor health outcomes. Even in places where it is legal or partially decriminalized, inconsistent regulations can limit access to legal protection, healthcare, and labor rights. This legal uncertainty contributes to the marginalization of sex workers and perpetuates the social stigmas attached to their profession.

Public health is another dimension of the problem. Unregulated or criminalized sex work environments can lead to increased transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, due to lack of access to healthcare services and protective measures. Additionally, sex workers often face psychological trauma, substance abuse, and limited support systems, which exacerbate the social and health-related consequences of the profession. These health issues are not just individual but spill over into broader public health concerns.

Cultural and social stigma surrounding prostitution contributes significantly to the persistence of the problem. Sex workers are often viewed through a lens of moral judgment, which isolates them from community support and hinders efforts to provide social services or legal recourse. This societal alienation reinforces cycles of poverty, abuse, and discrimination, making it difficult for individuals to exit the trade or seek safer working conditions. Addressing prostitution solely through punitive measures, rather than supportive or systemic reform, tends to exacerbate these underlying issues.

In summary, prostitution is a multidimensional social problem that intersects with gender inequality, poverty, public health, and human rights. The lack of a unified approach—whether legal, medical, or social—has made it difficult to create effective and sustainable solutions. To address prostitution as a social issue, a nuanced understanding is required—one that considers the lived realities of sex workers, challenges exploitative structures, and promotes policies grounded in health, dignity, and social justice.

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine Prostitution as a social problem. A case study of Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. The specific objectives are:

1. To examine the factors contributing to the prevalence of prostitution in Obi Local Government Area.
2. To assess the impact of prostitution on the social fabric of the community in Obi Local Government Area.
3. To explore the attitudes and perceptions of community members towards prostitution in Obi Local Government Area.
4. To identify the challenges faced by individuals involved in prostitution in Obi Local Government Area.

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What are the specific factors that contribute to the prevalence of prostitution in Obi Local Government Area?
2. How does prostitution impact the social fabric of the community in Obi Local Government Area?
3. What are the attitudes and perceptions of community members towards prostitution in Obi Local Government Area?
4. What are the main challenges faced by individuals involved in prostitution in Obi Local Government Area?

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Prostitution has no impact on the social fabric of the community in Obi Local Government Area.

H1: Prostitution has impact on the social fabric of the community in Obi Local Government Area.

1.6. Significance of the Study

This study holds significant importance as it aims to shed light on prostitution not just as an individual choice or moral issue, but as a complex social problem rooted in systemic inequality, poverty, and marginalization. By exploring the structural causes and consequences of prostitution, the study can contribute to a more informed and compassionate public discourse. It helps move the conversation beyond stereotypes and assumptions, encouraging society to address the deeper social and economic conditions that often push individuals into sex work.

One major contribution of this study is its potential to inform policy and legal reforms. Current laws and regulations around prostitution vary greatly, often lacking clarity and consistency. By presenting data and perspectives on how criminalization, legalization, or decriminalization affect sex workers and society, the study can help policymakers craft evidence-based legislation. Understanding the real-world impact of these laws is essential to creating safer and more just systems for everyone involved.

The study is also significant for public health initiatives. Since unregulated prostitution is linked to higher rates of sexually transmitted infections, mental health struggles, and violence, gaining insights into the lived experiences of sex workers can guide the development of more effective healthcare policies. Health professionals and organizations can use the findings to design outreach and support services that are more accessible, respectful, and responsive to the needs of this population.

From an academic standpoint, this research contributes to the growing body of interdisciplinary work on prostitution. It draws from sociology, gender studies, public health, law, and ethics to provide a well-rounded analysis. This broader perspective allows scholars and students to critically examine how prostitution intersects with other social issues, such as gender inequality, labor rights, and criminal justice, and to propose holistic solutions grounded in research.

For advocacy groups and NGOs, this study can serve as a resource in their efforts to protect the rights of sex workers and combat human trafficking. By separating consensual sex work from coercion and exploitation, the research helps clarify where support and intervention are most needed. This distinction is vital in creating targeted strategies that respect personal agency while addressing genuine abuses and human rights violations.

Finally, this study is significant for sex workers themselves. By including their voices and experiences, the research promotes visibility, respect, and understanding. Too often, sex workers are spoken about but not spoken with; this study challenges that pattern by prioritizing their perspectives. Empowering those directly affected by prostitution to share their stories not only strengthens the research but also fosters a more just and inclusive approach to solving the issues surrounding sex work.

1.7. Scope of the Study

The study examines Prostitution as a social problem. A case study of Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

1. Prostitution: Prostitution is the act or practice of engaging in sexual activity in exchange for money, goods, or other forms of compensation. It is often debated in terms of legality, morality, and human rights, and can be either voluntary or coerced.
2. Social Problem: A social problem is a condition or behavior that is considered undesirable or harmful by a significant number of people in a society and that requires collective action to be addressed. Examples include poverty, crime, addiction, and discrimination.
3. Community: A community is a group of people who share common interests, values, geographic location, or social ties. Communities can be based on neighborhoods, cultures, identities, or online networks, and they often work together to solve shared problems.
4. Challenges: Challenges are difficulties or obstacles that individuals or groups face in trying to achieve goals, solve problems, or improve their conditions. In the context of social issues, challenges may include limited resources, stigma, discrimination, or lack of policy support.

Project – Prostitution as a social problem.