child prostitute

The term child-prostitute refers to a person under the age of legal majority who engages in sexual acts in exchange for money, goods, or safety. Historically, this compound noun was the standard nomenclature used by law enforcement, media, and the public to describe minors involved in the sex trade, treating the activity similarly to adult sex work.

Usage of the term has become highly contested in recent decades. Those who object to the term—including human rights organizations, survivor networks, and legal bodies—argue that "prostitute" implies agency, a chosen profession, and the ability to consent. Since minors cannot legally consent to sexual acts, critics contend that the term inaccurately criminalizes the victim. Instead, they argue these children are victims of abuse, trafficking, or exploitation. Conversely, the term may still appear in older legal statutes or historical records, and some may use it colloquially to describe the transaction itself, though most modern style guides now advise against it to avoid stigmatizing the minor.

Example:
"The legislation was updated to replace the term child prostitute with 'victim of sexual exploitation.'"

Example:
"In the 1990s, media outlets frequently used the label child prostitute in headlines regarding street crime."