Human Trafficking and Child Welfare

Course overview

There is a growing awareness of human trafficking and the ongoing need for awareness and intervention. Due to their potentially unstable living situations, physical distance from friends and family, traumatic experiences, and emotional vulnerability, children involved with child welfare are considered to be at-risk for being targeted by human traffickers who are actively seeking children to exploit. Recent federal legislation has established requirements for professionals and agencies related to the identification and interventions for minor victims of human trafficking. This course explores how mental health professionals and agencies can support children who have been victimized and/or who are at greater risk for victimization. This resource/course provides background information about the issue of human trafficking, including its definition, scope, and relevant legislation and initiatives, and discusses strategies that can be implemented to address the trafficking of children. Relevant program examples also are provided.