Innovations in Human Trafficking Research—Part 1: Sex Trafficking and CSEC

Session Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel

Abstract/Description

This panel highlights innovative research being done in the field of sex trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC). First, this panel will review findings from a survey administered to women who are participating in sex trafficking specialty court programs across Ohio. The women’s perceptions on whether or not they view themselves as “victims” will be discussed, in addition to sex trade involvement and factors that may influence their perceptions before and after entering the court program. Second, using a sample of young people who experienced CSEC, the connection between cyber-abuse and CSEC will be explored to inform digital safety interventions. Third, this panel will examine data from a child welfare organization that applied network analysis to explore risk and vulnerabilities among sexually exploited males and females. Findings will review unique risk factors for males that need to be considered in future identification and response efforts.

Sub Unit

• Area III. Types of Offending / 18. Human Trafficking

Individual Presentations

• Perceptions of Victimhood among Women in Sex Trafficking Specialty Court Programs - Jane Mahon, University of Cincinnati; Aaron Murnan, University of Cincinnati; Gwen England, Director of CATCH Court; Leah Butler, University of Cincinnati; Teresa C. Kulig, University of Nebraska Omaha

• Role of Cyber Abuse and its Connection to CSEC Experiences - Sarah Lockwood, University of South Florida; Amelia Wagner, Northeastern University; Amy Farrell, Northeastern University; Carlos A. Cuevas, Northeastern University

• Does our Existing Understanding of Risk And Vulnerability Extend to Males Identified for Concerns of CSE? - Matthew Kafafian, University of Nebraska Omaha; Sarah Lockwood, University of South Florida; Ieke de Vries, Leiden University; Amy Farrell, Northeastern University

Chair

• Teresa C. Kulig, University of Nebraska Omaha