Adolescents at risk: A qualitative study of adolescent sex workers in Ibadan

Adolescent children in Nigeria are increasingly becoming engaged in sex work, and are being exploited and exposed to various sexual or health risk. In spite of the disconcerting increase in incidences with the associated risks, research efforts have not been concentrated on adolescents' sex work. with the false assumption that sex work is an adult business. Yet. in an era of HIV/Aids. the implications of adolescent sex work can further contribute to the national burden of the epidemic. This paper, presents the findings of a study conducted to determine the motivating factors for involvement in sex work. the profile of adolescent sex workers, perceived vulnerability to HIV/Aids and their future aspirations despite their captivation in this disturbing practice. Data was collected from forty-five adolescent sex workers, selected purposively. making use of the in-depth interview methods. Findings reveal that poverty, large families without financial means, peer pressure and poor socioeconomic background are the major contributing factors for the involvement of adolescents in sex work. They often realise that they face different kinds of risks in sex work, and all the adolescent sex workers interviewed desperately wanted to quit the work as soon as a legitimate job was available. The study concludes with some recommendations aimed at preventing potential adolescent girls from engaging in sex work. and striving towards a healthy life for those already involved.