Familial Exploitation: An Exploration of Exceptionalities Involving the Sex Trafficking of Young Children
Alicia Cohen, MEd | September 19 | 1:45-2:45 pm
Topic: Direct Service, Experience | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
This presentation will examine familial exploitation from a family-system perspective. Take a deep dive into the behavioral indicators, family dynamics, and offender characteristics that contribute to family-controlled exploitation. Exploitation of this kind involves family members selling their minor children for money, drugs, or something else of value (e.g., access, prestige, or recreation) and typically includes manufacturing of child sex abuse material. Families who exploit their children commercially often have adversities, dysfunctions, and disorders that create a household dynamic of coercion and secrecy, making identification and intervention extremely difficult. These children often attend school, church, and other community functions, but go unnoticed as needing assistance. Exploitation of this kind causes severe psychological trauma, negatively impacting the individual throughout their lifespan. While identification is difficult, it is not impossible. Join this session for a closer look at familial exploitation, examine key identifiers, and discuss intervention strategies throughout the lifespan.
Presentation Objectives:
• Provide a thorough understanding of familial trafficking, including dysfunctional household dynamics
• Identify key behavioral indicators of the family system and victim/survivor
• Explore survivor-informed intervention strategies across the lifespan