Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Trafficking of School-Aged Children

Abstract

Recent growth in the public’s awareness of child sex trafficking has been accompanied by the spread of misinformation about the nature of this and related offenses. This chapter places trafficking within the larger context of child sexual abuse and exploitation (CSA/CSE) and highlights the ways that many of the crimes underneath this umbrella are connected. The author begins with the definition and clarification of terms that are central to understanding these issues, including grooming, trafficking, sextortion, and child sexual abuse material. Research is presented on prevalence rates of CSA/CSE, factors associated with children’s vulnerability to becoming a victim, and common psychological consequences for those who do. The chapter concludes with information on recognizing and responding to CSA/CSE along with descriptions of approaches currently being utilized to prevent these crimes.