Correlates of Youth Sex Trafficking in the United States: The Role of the Environment in Shaping Vulnerability and Demand

Abstract

This study explores potential correlates of youth sex trafficking (YST) within the exosystem and macrosystem of the social-ecological model (SEM). A literature review of studies (n = 25) published between 2012 and 2024 identified factors linked to YST vulnerability and demand, including factors related to land use, concentrated disadvantage, the digital environment, and the built and social environment. Protective factors in the exosystem and macrosystem, such as strong community ties and anti-trafficking education and legislation, were also noted. Findings highlight the need for broader research on environmental predictors of YST, as predictive variables have the capacity to inform YST prevention strategies.