03/26/2026
Join us for a special webinar discussion, From Abuse to Exploitation: How Childhood Trauma Increases Vulnerability to S*x Trafficking, to be held on March 31 at 12:00pm Eastern.
Childhood s*xual abuse and other adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) fundamentally shape a child’s developing brain, sense of safety, and understanding of relationships. Research consistently shows that individuals who experience early trauma—particularly s*xual abuse, neglect, family violence, or instability—face a dramatically increased risk of later exploitation, including recruitment into s*x trafficking and the commercial s*x trade.
This webinar will explore the pathways that connect early trauma to later vulnerability. Survivors of childhood abuse often grow up with disrupted attachment, chronic shame, impaired boundaries, and a heightened need for validation and belonging. These trauma-driven dynamics can make children and adolescents especially susceptible to grooming, manipulation, and coercion by traffickers who deliberately exploit unmet emotional needs and prior s*xualization.
Moderated by WorldWE Policy and Education Manager, Dahlia Locke, this webinar will feature EMPOWER Center Program Director, Mitha Choudhury; Pivot Psychology Austin Founder, Annie Farmer; WorldWE STAND Fellow, Katie Green; and PEHT Executive Director, Jamie Manirakiza. Using clinical research, survivor narratives, and legal cases, our panel of experts will help professionals understand why victims may appear to “choose,” return to, or remain in exploitative situations—and why these behaviors must be understood through a trauma-informed lens.
🔗 Register at the link in bio