Citation

Preble KM, Tlapek S, Koegler E. Violence Vict. 2020; 35(3): 363-381.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, Springer Publishing)

DOI

10.1891/VV-D-19-00042

PMID

32606218

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: Human trafficking

Language: en

Keywords

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