Bureaus > Vice > Parental Information

As a parent there are signs that you can look for if you suspect that your child may be involved in prostitution. Prostitution is commonly referred to as "the game" by the pimp and prostitute sub-culture. Many juvenile victims believe that they are in boyfriend/girlfriend relationship with their pimp. The majority of victims are females, but can include males. In some instances, there will be a brief "courting period" where the relationship seems ideal. This does not last long. Often times this relationship will become emotionally and physically abusive. The end goal of the pimp is to make money by having the victim become a prostitute. Some behavioral changes to watch for are:

• Change in speech patterns- Your child uses terms like "daddy"- pimp, "wifey"-prostitutes, "breaking off" -paying pimp money earned, or talks about being part of a "stable".
• Change in clothing and appearance- Your child is getting her hair styled and nails done and has no way to pay for it. She may start wearing provocative clothing .
• Change in friends- Your child is associating with older males and females and staying out late at night.
• Tattoos- Your child has tattoos on her body. These tattoos may say "daddy", "daddy's girl", "the game", or "money". They may also have symbols for money ($$$). Often times these are placed on the neck as well as other parts of the body.

If you suspect that your child may be involved in juvenile prostitution, contact the Vice section.

Helpful links :

• National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
• U.S. Department of Justice