Cultural Sensitive Trauma-informed Therapy for Youthful Victims of Human Sex Trafficking: Setting a Course to Healing

Michael A. Smith 
(The Salvation Army, USA)

Abstract: Millions of children around the world are exploited and traumatized in situations of human trafficking- a form of modern-day slavery. Exposure to such brutal and inhuman treatment is traumatic, especially for children. Trauma is a life defining event with a complex course which can profoundly shape a victim’s sense of self and others. Trauma interferes with the child’s brain (Perry B., 2001). Many survivors will need skilled care to help them fully recover from their traumatic experiences. This presentation will identify two types of child human trafficking, the trauma associated with victimization, and strategies on how to provide basic culturally sensitive trauma resolution services for child sex trafficking victims.

Key words: child sexual abuse, youth sex trafficking, sexual trauma, trauma informed practice