Given the importance of examining the process of women’s entry into prostitutionFootnote1 in Iran, this study used a qualitative approach and narrative analysis method to explore, describe, and explain in detail the processes leading to women’s involvement in prostitution in the city of Mashhad. Using purposive sampling, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with women engaged in prostitution from October 2022 to March 2023. Sampling continued until theoretical saturation was reached (N = 27). The results revealed that women become involved in prostitution through a series of step-by-step processes: weakening of social control, the presence of a mother engaged in prostitution, acquaintance with pseudo-prostitute women, and lack of support systems. Each of these processes leads to prostitution through various sub-processes. According to the findings, in contemporary Iranian society, many women engage in pseudo-prostitutional activities before fully entering the profession of prostitution. After familiarizing themselves with the path, they transition into professional prostitution.

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