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Sex trafficking

Definition

Recruitment, harbouring, or obtaining a person for a commercial sex act by force, fraud, or coercion, or where the victim is a minor (no force or fraud element required). Distinct from consensual adult sex work, though clinical presentation shares many features and non-judgmental assessment is essential.

Related terms

Human trafficking
The recruitment, transportation, harbouring, or receipt of persons by force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of exploitation. Defined in the UN...
Labour trafficking
Compelled labour or services through force, fraud, or coercion. Sectors include agriculture, domestic work, construction, garment factories, and restaurant and hotel industries....
National Referral Mechanism (NRM)
The UK government framework for identifying victims of modern slavery and ensuring they receive appropriate support. Healthcare workers are designated first responders...
PEARR tool
A structured framework for healthcare encounters with possible trafficking victims: Provide privacy, Educate about available services, Ask questions in a trauma-informed way,...
Trauma bonding
A psychological attachment formed under conditions of intermittent reinforcement (abuse alternating with care), captivity, and dependency. Creates loyalty or protective feelings toward...

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