Familial Trafficking in Louisiana: An Exploratory Qualitative Study of Case Characteristics and Systems Response

Author: McCallum Desselle, Leanne; Barrick, Kelle; Attaway, Peyton & Bacy, Shani

Abstract: Familial trafficking (FT) is an under-recognized and under-studied form of human trafficking in which exploitation is perpetrated by a family member or caregiver. Despite its prevalence, little is known about how FT is identified and addressed by professionals on the front lines. This exploratory study examined the perspectives of service providers and child welfare specialists and incorporated survivor voices to better understand the characteristics, challenges, and responses to FT in Louisiana. To gather these perspectives, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with nine key stakeholder organizations engaged in responding to FT, four survivors of FT, and one respondent who self-identified as both a service provider and a survivor. The study highlights the unique relational, emotional, and systemic barriers that distinguish FT from third‑party trafficking and underscores the need for improved identification strategies, trauma‑informed interventions, and specialized training for multidisciplinary responders.

Keywords: child trafficking, familial trafficking, family-facilitated trafficking, Louisiana, systems-based response