ERIC Number: EJ1188522
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2015
Pages: 24
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-2155-5834
EISSN: N/A
The Commercial Sexual Exploitation and Sex Trafficking of Minors in the Boston Metropolitan Area: Experiences and Challenges Faced by Front-Line Providers and Other Stakeholders
Macias-Konstantopoulos, Wendy L.; Munroe, Deanne; Purcell, Genevieve; Tester, Kristina; Burke, Thomas F.; Ahn, Roy
Journal of Applied Research on Children, v6 n1 Article 4 2015
Objectives: The commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC), including sex trafficking of minors, is considered a severe form of abuse and violence against minors. We use a public health lens to examine perceptions regarding the context and process of CSEC and sex trafficking of minors in the Boston area, the response of the health care sector, and opportunities to improve the health and well-being of exploited/trafficked minors. Methods: Using case study methodology, we conducted 22 semi-structured qualitative interviews of 25 key anti-trafficking stakeholders active in the Boston area. Results: Key informants identified CSEC involving boys, girls, and transgender youth as a local problem. Many social and economic factors facilitate sex trafficking, including child sexual abuse, domicile instability, and financial insecurity. The health needs of commercially sexually exploited minors are numerous, and local health care services are variable, particularly in the realm of mental health. Various factors function as barriers to a greater health care sector response, including low awareness of CSEC and sex trafficking of minors among health care providers. Gaps in CSEC prevention and response include early recognition of signs and symptoms, CSEC-knowledgeable trauma-sensitive health care services, and emergency shelter. Conclusions: CSEC, including sex trafficking of minors, is a recognized occurrence in the Boston area that requires a multidisciplinary response across multiple sectors. A more robust health care system response in coordination with other active stakeholders could help enhance the overall impact of local anti-CSEC/trafficking efforts. Increased health trainings, policy advocacy, and the use of multidisciplinary teams may be an effective way to partner across sectors and ensure wraparound services for exploited youth.
Descriptors: Sexual Abuse, Children, Crime, Metropolitan Areas, Child Health, Well Being, Health Services, Health Needs, Barriers, Child Abuse, Social Influences, Economic Factors, Access to Health Care
Children At Risk. 2900 Weslayan Street Suite 400, Houston, TX 77027. Tel: 713-869-7740; Fax: 713-869-3409; e-mail: jarc@childrenatrisk.org; Web site: http://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/childrenatrisk/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Massachusetts (Boston)
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A