Violence, manipulation and prostitution: the “loverboy method” is so dangerous Study: Glasgow agreement could prevent global warming by more than two degrees

Alpha influencer Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan Tate were formally charged with human trafficking and rape on Tuesday. The two allegedly set up a network in Romania and forced women to make porn films. They allegedly used the “loverboy method”.

What is the “Loverboy Method”?

The loverboy method is a manipulation tactic to make someone dependent on you. Pimps or traffickers (so-called “loverboys”) pretend to have great feelings for their victims and try to isolate them from their surroundings. The loverboys give their victims lavish attention, compliments and often presents. If there is enough dependence, prostitution is usually demanded or forced of the victim. The perpetrators often convince their victims by pretending to use the money they earn to build a future together.

Who is affected?

All. Since the method is manipulation, anyone can fall victim to the loverboy method. However, in most cases, girls or young women with deep self-confidence are affected. These are the easiest areas for offenders to exert influence. The loverboys often visit their victims’ schools or are known to the family as the daughter’s partner. But the perpetrators are also increasingly active on dating platforms or social media. In the Tate case, there are chat histories that show what words the influencer allegedly used to manipulate women.

How do I recognize a loverboy?

According to soziothek.ch, the loverboy method has only been studied in detail in Switzerland since 2018. So it is still a fairly new phenomenon. Yet there are a number of characteristics by which you can recognize a loverboy:

The famous Tinder scammer heard not to the loverboy category, as he did not engage in human trafficking with the victims.

Are there also lover girls?

Men can also be victims of the loverboy method. However, cases where a woman manipulates a boy in this way are very rare.

However, the term “lover girl” refers to the young women who are forced by the loverboys to victimize other girls as well.

How do I protect myself and the people around me?

Victim support and social work in the prostitution environment offer help to victims. However, many affected do not seek help because they are so dependent on their loverboy that they do not recognize the manipulation. It is therefore important that you become aware of the subject and recognize possible warning signs.