Addressing Root Causes of Domestic Urban Pimping and Prostitution
Armand King | September 19 | 3:15-4:15 pm EDT
Topic: Conceptual, Experience | Knowledge Level: Beginner
This presentation explores the systemic, social, and economic factors contributing to domestic urban pimping and prostitution, emphasizing the importance of addressing root causes rather than symptoms. Through lived experience, research, and real-world solutions, the discussion will challenge misconceptions and highlight the pathways that lead individuals—particularly youth—into exploitative situations. The training will examine the intersections of poverty, housing instability, trauma, lack of opportunities, and the normalization of exploitation in marginalized communities. Additionally, it will address the role of systemic failures, including child welfare, education, and the justice system, in perpetuating cycles of vulnerability. Participants will gain insight into the recruitment tactics used by exploiters, the psychological manipulation involved, and the barriers that prevent individuals from exiting these lifestyles. The presentation will also introduce community-based interventions, mentoring models, and restorative justice approaches that have been effective in breaking cycles of exploitation. By centering lived experience and practical solutions, this training will equip service providers, educators, and community leaders with strategies to engage at-risk individuals and create pathways to empowerment.
Presentation Objectives:
• Examine the root causes that contribute to domestic urban pimping and prostitution, including economic instability, systemic failures, and social conditioning
• Analyze recruitment tactics and psychological control methods used in urban exploitation
• Discuss intervention strategies, including mentoring, restorative justice, and community-based solutions
• Provide actionable recommendations for service providers, educators, and community members to prevent exploitation and support survivors