https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/87465 2026-04-27T11:57:53Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/99164 Title: Sex work in Malta : implications for policy development Abstract: This research examined the current nature of prostitution / sex work in Malta, and the different forms it may take. It also delved into the different aspects of the legal framework presently regulating prostitution in Malta, in comparison to other models existing in European, Commonwealth, and other countries. Importance was also given to the possibility of any legal changes envisaged for Malta and how these would impact the lives of prostitutes already working in the field, as well as the effects it would have on the wider society. This study adopted a qualitative research approach, and the data gathered was analysed through thematic analyses. Elite interviews were also carried out with various stakeholders working in the field. These include members of the judiciary, legal practitioners, executive and legislative officials, NGOs, as well as a former sex worker. All participants included in the study presented their insights based on their role in the field. Findings revealed the need for improved laws in relation to prostitution. Participants’ views ranged from mere regulations, to the criminalisation of the buyer, to total legalisation. Nonetheless, all parties involved stressed the necessity of having a support system available to assist and encourage victims of exploitation who would like to desist. Others expressed their belief that there are individuals who are into prostitution voluntarily and have now become to regard it as their career choice, stressing the need for the introduction of social welfare benefits for the sex workers. Description: M.A.(Melit.) 2018-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/99163 Title: The psychological and emotional pain of the hungry ghost : an addiction practitioners’ perspective Abstract: Addiction, as a concept, takes many forms and behaviors such as; work, internet and social media, sex, gambling and shopping, to mention a few. This study focused on illicit drug addiction from a psychological perspective, investigating the psychological and emotional causes of illicit drug addiction, principally, painful experiences in childhood. It looked into various psychological theories, particularly attachment theory, focusing on the concept of the ‘hungry ghost’ drawing from the philosophy of Buddhism. This theory explains how the insatiability, disconnectedness and dislocation from self and society resulting from negative childhood experiences may lead to drug use. The aim of the study was to explore whether lack of attachment and bonding, trauma, abuse and other negative experiences in childhood, may result in the onset of illicit drug use and abuse. It also examined the processes which help addicts in remission to remain clean and resilient as well as preventing relapse. These themes were explored from the perception of experienced practitioners working in the field of addiction. A qualitative approach was selected to undertake this small-scale study, consisting of semistructured, in-depth, face to face interviews with two psychologists, two community workers, two social/youth workers and two probation officers, working in different areas of illicit drug addiction. This research study revealed that psychological and emotional pain, resulting from past childhood traumatic experiences, is one of the primary causes of illicit drug addiction. Poor attachment and social bonding, familial dysfunction, as well as peer pressure and other high risk socio-economic environments constitute a risk for drug addiction. Ultimately, the research showed that with the assistance of qualified practitioners, the drug addicts may become aware, reflect and come to terms with the unresolved traumatic experiences they had in their childhood and learn the necessary skills to become resilient. In doing so, when they eventually go back into the community, they establish a healthy social support system based on trust and consistency and maintenance, that foster and maintain the resilience skills required to remain clean and prevent relapse. Description: M.A.(Melit.) 2018-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/87470 Title: Gay men of the 70s : a biographical study Abstract: This dissertation is an analytical assessment of the abrogation of A220 of the Criminal code in 1973. This lead to the removal of the unnatural act (sodomy) from the Maltese criminal code. The main reason for its removal was medical since until then, homosexuality was still considered a mental illness. Six men agreed to share their experiences of their life in the 1970s – a time when they were youths in their 20s and 30s – a time when for most gay men, secrecy was paramount, conversation little and the sex rampant, anonymous and easily available. The explorations into the legal cases and newspapers and upon deeper reflection on their narratives of social life, religious life and private sex lives offers us a glimpse into the lives of these young men and 1970s Malta. Description: B.A.(HONS)YOUTH&COMM.STUD. 2018-01-01T00:00:00Z