Childhood adversity and sex trafficking experiences linked to economic and psychological outcomes for U.S. survivors of commercial sexual exploitation

Author: Furlong, Courtney & Hinnant, James Benjamin

Abstract: This investigation sought to develop a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of survivors of commercial sexual exploitation by considering the links between childhood background, trafficking experiences, and outcomes. To that end, 350 survivors of commercial sexual exploitation living in the US were surveyed. Guided by ecological and life course frameworks, variables included adverse childhood experiences, socioeconomic disadvantage, educational achievement, trafficking experiences, and several outcomes, including income, employment status, posttraumatic stress symptoms, dignity, and sobriety. Results suggested that adverse childhood experiences were strongly linked to more severe exploitation and poorer outcomes. Educational achievement improved income and employment without reducing trafficking severity. Socioeconomic disadvantage showed no significant risk, contradicting prior research. Further, more severe trafficking experiences were significantly linked to poorer economic stability. Findings went on to suggest that trafficking-related experiences may play a mediating role in the negative effects of early adversity on income, employment, and sobriety. This investigation highlights the diverse and individualized needs of survivors of commercial sexual exploitation, indicating that tailored interventions are essential for addressing the complex interplay of childhood adversity, trafficking experiences, and recovery trajectories.

Keywords: adverse childhood experiences, commercial sexual exploitation, educational achievement, sex trafficking, socioeconomic disadvantage, survivor outcomes