Human Trafficking and Exploitation

As human trafficking becomes an increasingly more common problem in the United States, healthcare and mental health professionals will require knowledge of human trafficking patterns, the health and mental health needs of human trafficking victims, and successful interventions for victims. The purpose of this course is to increase the level of awareness and knowledge about human trafficking and exploitation so health and mental health professionals can identify and intervene in cases of exploitation. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented. 


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to: 


1. Define human trafficking.

2. Identify the forms of human trafficking.

3. Identify economic, political, social, and cultural factors that contribute to human trafficking.

4. Describe methodologic and research barriers to the study of human trafficking.

5. Compare the different perspectives that have been used to frame the problem of human trafficking.

6. Analyze the trafficking experience, including how traffickers recruit and the financial implications of trafficking.

7. Explain the psychological, health, and social consequences of human trafficking.

8. Utilize interviewing strategies to assess and identify victims and promote the ethical treatment of trafficking victims.

9. Describe various educational, prevention, mental health, legal, and social services interventions and responses targeted to human trafficking victims.

10. Discuss the countertransference and secondary traumatization practitioners experience when working with victims of human trafficking and the importance of self-care.


This 5-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.