College students' perspectives on human trafficking
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Abstract
Domestic minor sex trafficking (DMST) is an insidious and hidden form of abuse (Smith, Vardamen, & Snow, 2009; Clawson, 2010, Countryman-Roswurm, 2012). In the US, approximately 100,000 children are sexually exploited each year (Estes & Weiner, 2001; Smith et al., 2009). The complexity and scope of this issue requires a multi-disciplinary, collaborative approach led by professionals trained to identify and intervene on behalf of victims (ASERCA, n.d; Clawson & Dutch, 2008; Smith et al., 2009; Countryman-Roswurm, 2012; Rafferty, 2013; Countryman-Roswurm & Patton, 2014). Therefore, it is important to assess and enhance the knowledge and perceptions of DMST across disciplines. A University setting provides access to a range of disciplines and is typically structured to facilitate collaboration (Lattuca, Voigt, & Fath, 2004). This project examined 52 multi-disciplinary students' knowledge and perceptions of DMST before and after completing a one credit hour course on the topic. The results indicate that perception and knowledge about DMST were increased through participation in the course. The benefits of enhancing college students' perceptions of human trafficking and increasing their knowledge about human trafficking are discussed.