The concept of sexual exploitation and its tensions: Beyond the victim-exploitation dichotomy

Abstract

In this article, my goal is to tense up the conceptions about sexual exploitation by taking this discussion beyond the victimization-blaming dichotomy. Semi-sctructured interviews were carried out with two highly experienced professionals in attending sheltered youngsters, and documented materials were analyzed - specifically, a police inquiry about a 17-year-old teenager. Girls who are sexually exploited deal with complex issues between the limits of living in a society that at once stimulates consumerism and moralizes their body, gender e sexuality. The challenge here is to consider protection apparatuses that can deal with the vast nuances involved in sexual exploitation, considering the young girls' own decisions and strategies to deal with situations, without falling into blaming and punishment.