Abstract
D.Ed. (Educational Psychology)
Juvenile male prostitution is practised world-wide. The fact that it occurs in urban areas of
South Africa, has been attested to by media reports since approximately 1985. Nevertheless
it is a relatively unknown phenomenon as it has never before been researched in South Africa.
This study is the first research project which has been undertaken in South Africa.
The aim of the study was to describe an educational psychological approach which was
designed to assist those involved in juvenile male prostitution.
In this research a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual study was implemented. The research was divided into two phases. In the first phase the life experiences of the juvenile
male prostitutes were explored and described using exploratory multiple case studies based on
numerous sources in order to collect the data. The written data was subsequently analyzed
according to Giorgi's phenomenological analysis and Kerlinger's content analysis. Categories
which came to light, were used in describing the subjects' life experiences.
The validity and reliability of the research were ensured using Guba's model for determining
trustworthiness. On completion of the investigation, the research findings were compared with
the relevant, available literature, to determine the existence of similarities and differences. At
the end of the first phase, a number of themes were identified and were employed as a guide
to the formulation of an educational psychological remedial approach.
The three areas which were identified as being significant in describing an educational
psychological approach were: boys who had run away from home and who were Jiving outside
conventional social structures, boys who were living with their families, and boys who were still
at school.
In describing an educational psychological approach the main focus was directed at those
juvenile male prostitutes who were living outside conventional social structures. As three of
the four subjects used in the research project filled this requirement, it was decided to
implement the programme with one of the subjects in order to evaluate and adapt it, if
necessary.
Prior to the implementation of the programme the proposed educational psychological approach
for therapeutic assistance was submitted to two educational psychologists and a social worker
for their appraisal during a panel discussion. Following consultation with this panel of experts,
it was decided that too many factors existed which could negatively affect the therapy. These
factors were identified as: the absence of social structures, the lack of conditions which would
satisfy basic needs, and the absence of social support structures...