Lila's House

Lila''s House: Male Prostitution in Latin America presents insight into male prostitution in a truly global array of Latin American countries. This study focuses on a very specific sexual culture within the realm of male prostitution: the young men of a lower/middle-class brothel catering to a broad range of clients. You will explore the culture of juvenile prostitution and learn from the immediate intervention program that was implemented.

Twenty-five young men between the ages of 13 and 27 were interviewed for this study. They share with you their views on:

• sexual initiation
  
• sexual definition
  
• sexual orientation
  
• love
  
• drug use
  
• prostitution
  
• family relationships
  
• relationships with men and women
  
  The young men interviewed for this study are in serious danger of being exposed to the AIDS virus and of becoming addicted, if they are not already, to cocaine, crack, or alcohol. Those conducting the study initiated a campaign to supply condoms and raise the young men''s awareness about AIDS and drugs and began an immediate support program. The project resulted in the establishment, in June 1997, of an alternative home for juvenile prostitutes, which offers various opportunities for education and work.