Exploring Consequences of Sex Trafficking Victimization Among Individuals with and without Disabilities

Author: Krushas, Amber & Kulig, Teresa

Abstract: Persons with disabilities have historically been neglected in victimization research despite their recognition as a vulnerable population. As such, little is known about the consequences sex trafficking victims with disabilities may face as a result of the harms they endured. To expand knowledge in this important area, the current study used data from a national survey administered to adults in the general population. Out of the total sample, 204 individuals indicated they experienced sex trafficking victimization using behaviorally specific questions and the federal legal definition—approximately half of these respondents indicated they have a disability. Individuals who experienced sex trafficking were then asked about direct consequences following these experiences in five domains: (1) physical, (2) emotional/psychological, (3) social, (4) work/school, and (5) financial issues. Results demonstrated that compared to trafficking victims without disabilities, victims with disabilities were more likely to experience issues in each domain and to experience these issues for longer periods of time. Nevertheless, trafficking victimization predicted serious issues for all victims regardless of their disability status. Given that sex trafficking victimization resulted in substantial harm across every domain for all victims, it will be important for future work to inform best practices for responding to these consequences.

Keywords: human trafficking, victimization, disabilities, consequences