Human Trafficking Training in Health Care

Approximately how many child victims of sex trafficking are in the US?
 

Answer C. It is estimated that 100,000 children and an unknown number of adults are living in trafficking conditions.

What are the largest trafficking venues in the US?

Answer D. Any place where there is a large concentration of men and alcohol are suspected areas where trafficked victims will be found.

How many countries have legalized prostitution?

Answer D. Over 100 countries have some form of legalized prostitution. Brothels are legal in the state of Nevada. The US is second only to Germany as a trafficking destination.

What are the risk factors for human sex trafficking?

Answer D. Children who have been neglected or abused are at high risk for human sex trafficking. Intervening mental illness also represents a vulnerability.

What are the primary psychological symptoms of a victim of trafficking?

Answer D. Additional symptoms include those of complex trauma: confusion, incoherent narrative, lack of identity, fear, suicidal behavior.

What signs should clinicians look for when they suspect a child has been victimized?

Answer E. When assessing the patient, be aware that in the presence of the abuser-who will often try to speak for the patient-the victim may appear depressed, anxious, fearful, or submissive. There is likely to be poor eye contact and a scripted robotic story. When you ask for clarification, the narrative will often become incoherent. She may dissociate, become confused, have poor concentration, and a short attention span. Frequently, a victim will be unable to give a coherent history. Physical examination that reveals injuries, signs of abuse, tattoos, or branding, and poor general health as well as untreated STDs and multiple pregnancies is often indicative of victimization.

When a professional suspects a child is being trafficked, what should be done?

Answer C. Mandatory reporting based on suspicion is the rule. Anyone can report suspected trafficking cases. If the victim is under 18, US professionals who work in law enforcement, health care, social care, mental health, and education are mandated to report such cases. If you suspect that you are seeing a victim of sex trafficking, you can contact the US Department of Justice Amber Alert Program. The mission of the US Department of Justice AMBER Alert Training and Technical Assistance Program is to safely recover missing, endangered, or abducted children through the coordinated efforts of law enforcement, media, transportation, and other partners by using training and technology to enhance response capacities and capabilities and increase public participation. The AMBER Alert Program has recovered hundreds of children since its inception. Health professionals can contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).

A healthcare professional suspects an adult is being trafficked. What should be done?

Answer C. There are a number of agencies to call or text 24/7. Call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1-888-373-7888 (24/7), the Department of Homeland Security at 1-866-347-2423 (24/7), or the US Department of Justice at 1-888-428-7581 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (EST). You can also submit a tip online at www.ice.gov/tips. Victims, including undocumented individuals, are eligible for services and immigration assistance.