Human Trafficking: Identification and Intervention

Course overview

Human Trafficking: Identification and Intervention is a 1-hour online continuing education (CE) course that details the many facets of human trafficking as well as how to identify and provide intervention to victims/survivors. Human trafficking, commonly discussed under the two broad categories of sexual trafficking and labor trafficking, is a pervasive public health issue, both globally and in the United States. This course will examine the various forms of human trafficking, including the commercial sexual exploitation and trafficking of domestic minors and children who are foreign nationals, the commercial sexual exploitation and trafficking of adults, and the labor trafficking of adults and minors. Estimates of the prevalence and scope of these crimes are discussed. As we discuss each of these categories, we consider the range of crimes committed against the individuals, how the exploitation can be part of a larger experience of trauma, tactics used to lure individuals into trafficking, and the issues surrounding work visas. The course begins by defining and exploring the scope of this human rights violation and discusses the Trafficking Victims Protection Act's (TVPA) three-pronged approach to combatting human trafficking. This is followed by a short overview of the National Trafficking Hotline's Action-Mans-Purpose Model used to describe elements of human trafficking. Detailed information on the potential indicators of human trafficking and the specific red flag indicators of trafficking is provided. Several screening tools available to assist healthcare professionals with identifying victims of trafficking are also provided. This is followed by a discussion of issues that should be considered in providing intervention and services. This includes the assessment and treatment of trauma when working with patients; implementation of the National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services in Health and Health Care; barriers to financial inclusion and stability; the importance of professional interpreters; and law enforcement involvement in trafficking cases. The importance of using trauma informed assessment and care is underscored as the author presents information on SAMHSA's trauma informed approach to care, highlighting the six key principles and outlining trauma-specific interventions. This is followed by a short section on how the challenges related to working with victims/survivors who have endured abuse and trauma may contribute to the experience of vicarious trauma among providers. A comprehensive list of informational videos, further training opportunities, and resources are provided. Appendices outlining the 25 distinct businesses in which the human trafficking of persons occurs, and key trafficking terms and definitions are also included. The recommended one hour of study time is for reading the course materials only. Watching the accompanying videos and studying further reading materials via the links provided are not necessary to take the course exam. The resources provided at the end of the course are also for informational purposes only. Course #11-50 | 2024 | 33 pages | 10 posttest questions