Psychological Impact There is much academic debate over the notion of free choice  - whether individuals enter prostitution voluntarily or are coerced by unequal power. More importantly, however, is the effect of prostitution on those involved. Most psychologists believe the long-term psychological harm resulting from prostitution is comparable to that from rape or domestic violence . NCAP highlights that 76% of those involved in prostitution experience some form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) . Individuals involved in prostitution often develop complex coping mechanisms and rituals to minimise their pain and brokenness:   Disassociative disorders (e.g. disconnection, distancing) Anxiety disorders (e.g. fixation, memory loss, panic attacks, flashbacks) Substance abuse (leading to long term addiction and mental illness) Sleeping disorders – oversleeping, insomnia Depression Self harm Eating Disorders Obsessive-compulsive behaviour ... to name a few.