Sex Trafficking Knowledge and Training: Implications From Environmental Scanning in the American Midwest

Violence Vict. 2020 Jun 1;35(3):363-381. doi: 10.1891/VV-D-19-00042.

Abstract

Large gaps exist in our knowledge about the effectiveness of sex trafficking training. This study surveyed knowledge and training regarding sex trafficking among service providers (N = 66; i.e., social workers, law enforcement offers, and medical providers) in one Midwestern state. The study aimed to: (a) determine the goodness-of-fit between respondents' agency criteria for victim identification and established trafficking definitions, (b) assess training desired and received, and (c) examine group differences in knowledge and training by profession and position. Results suggest confusion exists in defining sex trafficking among aftercare providers despite nearly all respondents indicating they had received training on definition, identification, and vulnerability. Training gaps regarding service coordination, case development, and the legal, mental health, and medical needs of victims remain.

Keywords: Midwest; evidenced-based training; multidisciplinary teams; sex trafficking; technical knowledge.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Health Personnel*
  • Human Trafficking*
  • Humans
  • Inservice Training*
  • Law Enforcement*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Midwestern United States
  • Social Workers*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult