Prostitutes Shively
John Schools and Prostitution Demand Reduction
John Schools are educational programs targeting individuals arrested for soliciting prostitutes (often called “johns”). Their primary goal is to prevent reoffending by educating participants about the harmful consequences of prostitution, including its links to human trafficking. These programs represent a key strategy in reducing the demand for commercial sex.
Research on Sex Buyers
Research by Michael Shively and colleagues provides significant insights into the demand side of prostitution. Key findings include:
- An estimated 10-20% of adult males in the US report paying for sex at some point.
- Men who buy sex differ demographically and behaviorally from men who do not.
- Studies comparing arrested sex buyers to national samples found distinct patterns among buyers.
Shively’s work, such as the comprehensive report “A National Overview of Prostitution and Sex Trafficking Demand Reduction Efforts” (2012), analyzed various interventions aimed at reducing demand.
Law Enforcement and Community Responses
Efforts to combat prostitution demand extend beyond John Schools:
- Police departments use tactics like sting operations targeting buyers.
- Some jurisdictions employ “Dear John” letters, mailed to individuals suspected of soliciting, as a deterrent.
- There are ongoing discussions about public shaming of buyers and the effectiveness of different legal approaches.
Challenges persist, including the shift of solicitation to online platforms and escort services. Research indicates that while interventions like John Schools raise awareness, their long-term impact on reducing demand requires further evaluation.
*TAGS* – sex buyers research, demand reduction strategies, Dear John letters
