Trafficking in the child and adolescent: Application of SAFETY and CARE for a global crisis of exploitation.

Abstract

Human trafficking in the child and adolescent is a global public health crisis that can be divided into sex trafficking, labor trafficking and organ trafficking. This discussion considers basic terminology in this area, sociodemographic information on these victims, negative effects or repercussions from such egregious actions forced on the victims, issues of screening for healthcare providers based on specific risk factors/indicators, and information regarding screening tools as well as management principles for healthcare professionals. These trafficked persons are seen in varied practice settings such as primary care offices, emergency departments, street medicine operations, and others. Clinicians can approach these victims with targeted training that encourages these pediatric persons to feel safe in healthcare settings, empowering them to help with healing (i.e., trauma-informed care). It is important that those involved in the care of trafficked victims understand the rights of these persons who are essentially hostages that need rescuing, and thus, employ a rights-based approach in dealing with these vulnerable children and youth. Culturally-sensitive concepts of prevention are considered as well to reduce this illegal, inhumane exploitation of our children and adolescents ubiquitously existing throughout the United States and the world. Indeed, there is much that clinicians and society can do to help these unfortunate minors who often feel hopeless and trapped in chaotic circumstances.