Book detail

	STREET KIDS: The Lives of Runaway and Thrownaway Teens Author: R. Barri Flowers Published: June 15, 2010 by McFarland and Co. Series Name: Social Sciences/Society Category: Teen Issues, Child Abuse, Juvenile Prostitution, Sexual Abuse, Homelessness This timely book examines the complex and persistent problem of street kids in America--largely youth who have run away or been forced to leave home. Precipitating factors that lead to homelessness are explored, including child sexual abuse and neglect, substance abuse, mental health and behavioral problems, sexual promiscuity, and issues related to gender identity. These youth often become the victims of sexual exploitation by pimps, prostitution customers, pornographers, and pedophiles. Violence, sexually transmitted diseases, and substance abuse are common themes experienced by teenagers and young adusts as a result from life on the streets. Laws and programs aimed at combating the commercial sexual exploitation of these vulnerable youth are also discussed.