Five Core Principles for Working with Sexually Exploited or Trafficked Youth

Working with trafficked or sexually exploited youth is a rewarding endeavor, but it can also be challenging. It is important to think about the values and assumptions we bring to this work and consider how we can formulate our approach to better support youth victims/survivors. To ensure that our efforts are helpful and not harmful, we can utilize the five core principles identified in the Safe Harbor Protocol Guidelines. In working with and responding to youth who have been sexually exploited or trafficked, we should be: Victim-Centered, Trauma-Informed, Youth-Centered, Strengths-Based, and Culturally Responsive.