Parents as Perpetrators: Family-Facilitated Child Sex Trafficking in Unique Cultural Contexts
Rochelle L. Dalla, PhD | September 20 | 3:15-4:15 pm
Topic: Research, International | Knowledge Level: Beginner
Most data on child sex trafficking, and family-facilitated child sex trafficking (FFCST) more specifically, comes from Western, developed nations, especially the U.S. (Sprang & Cole, 2018; Reid, Huard & Haskell, 2015). Although exceedingly valuable in providing a foundation of knowledge, these data provide a small window only into the many nuanced manifestations of FFCST globally. Diversity in culture, economics, politics, and resource availability and accessibility greatly impact family dynamics related to FFCST (Willis & Barry, 2006; Sprang & Cole, 2018). In this presentation, the presenter will describe three unique types of FFCST that have been identified in India—from her own research over the past 15 as well as the extant literature (Sabharwal & Sonalkar, 2015; Saggurti et al., 2011; Jha & Sharma, 2016). Similarities (e.g., structural vulnerabilities including caste membership and availability and access to resources) and subtle differences (e.g., in family dynamics, intergenerational transmission) across the variations will be highlighted as will implications for health and well-being of victims and their children. Comparisons with what is known about FFCST in the U.S. will be made and suggestions for continued research, practice and policy will be discussed—emphasizing how much of what is currently understood about FFCST, may not be generalizable to culturally unique populations. Culturally appropriate economic growth and anti-discriminatory (caste, gender) policies, with actionable field-based, ethical, and trauma informed strategies are paramount for change to occur.
Presentation Objectives:
· Describe three unique types of FFCST identified in unique cultural contexts of India
· Identify similarities and differences across the three types of FFCST as well as comparisons with what is currently understood in the literature about FFCST in the U.S. and other Western Countries
· Suggest implications for psycho-social well-being for victims/survivors of each of the three types of FFCST