In my research, I focused on the role of social workers in preventing and addressing prostitution as a consequence of adolescent girls running away from residential care institutions. In the theoretical overview, I first analyzed who the young people are and presented the importance of social work with youth, describing the concepts and methods of social workers' work. I also described residential care institutions in Slovenia and the importance of intensive groups operating within these institutions, as well as the process of placing adolescents in residential care institutions. I specifically focused on the phenomenon of runaways from residential care institutions. I defined prostitution and the reasons for engaging in prostitution, the state of prostitution in Slovenia, child prostitution, and the role of social work in addressing prostitution, including preventive and curative measures. Finally, I added news articles that describe the topic of my research.
My research is qualitative, exploratory, and empirical. As a measuring instrument, I used interview guidelines and conducted five interviews with social workers selected from my population. The population in the study includes social workers who dealt with an adolescent girl involved in prostitution during her runaway from a residential care institution between October 1, 2023, and May 1, 2024. These social workers are employed at Centers for Social Work (CSD), residential care institutions, or non-governmental organizations in Slovenia. The sample was a non-probability convenience sample, including three social workers from Centers for Social Work, one social worker from a residential care institution, and one social worker from a non-governmental organization.
The results of the research indicate that early detection of the vulnerability of adolescent girls, often involving sexual abuse and traumatic experiences, can significantly impact their exposure to dangers. Adolescent girls often face complex relationships with men, health issues, low self-esteem, and substance abuse, which increase the risk of prostitution. Important indicators of vulnerability include a sudden increase in money and secrecy.
Preventing runaways from residential care institutions requires coordinated action by professionals and cooperation with parents. Emphasis is placed on building trust, regular conversations, activities to reduce loneliness, and adapting strategies to the needs of the adolescents. Support after a runaway includes coordinated action by institutions, psychosocial support, safe spaces, and tailored schoolwork. The role of non-governmental organizations and family involvement in the recovery process is also important. Key elements are sustainable support, empowerment of the adolescents, and maintaining stable relationships.
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