Piecing the Puzzle Together: Assembling a beautiful future for survivors of commercial sexual exploitation

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 United States were surveyed. Guided by ecological and life course frameworks, variables included background measures, trafficking experiences, and several outcomes, including income, employment status, posttraumatic stress (PTSD) symptoms, dignity, and sobriety.

Results suggested that adverse childhood experiences (ACES) were strongly linked to more severe exploitation and poorer outcomes, educational achievement improved income and employment without reducing trafficking severity, and socioeconomic disadvantage showed no significant risk, contradicting prior research. Findings went on to suggest that access to support services can buffer against the effects of childhood adversity on outcomes, though some results were unexpected or negligible in practical impact.

This investigation highlights the diverse and individualized needs of survivors of commercial sexual exploitation, indicating that tailored interventions — guided by intake assessments and behavioral framing — are essential for addressing the complex interplay of childhood adversity, trafficking experiences, and recovery trajectories. Altogether, these findings provide pieces of the puzzle that can assist survivors as they reassemble their lives into beautiful futures.