Graduation Term

2023

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Department of Sociology and Anthropology: Sociology

Committee Chair

Chris Wellin

Abstract

Since 2000, there has been a growing interest in human trafficking by researchers, governments, organizations, law enforcement, and the general public. One form of human trafficking that has captured the most interest and awareness is sex trafficking. However, despite the growing research and understanding of the problem, there is no shared, collective understanding and definition of sex trafficking. Various constructions and approaches have made it challenging to prevent sex trafficking, protect victims, and prosecute traffickers. For this research, I will take a social constructionist/social problems perspective by interviewing three agencies about how they identify, define, frame, and approach to the problem of sex trafficking. The framing, defining, and approach to the problem by the three agencies reflects their impact and efforts to address sex trafficking. However, framing and addressing specific aspects of a complex, multi-dimensional problem creates limitations and barriers that affects the agencies impact and effectiveness.

Access Type

Thesis-Open Access

DOI

https://doi.org/10.30707/ETD2023.20240124055107580711.999993

Share

COinS