Human Trafficking Awareness

Abstract

Little research has been conducted concerning public awareness of human trafficking. The purpose of this study was to investigate awareness of human trafficking, including the accuracy and the source of that knowledge. This study was largely exploratory. Participants were college students and individuals who are affiliated with an anti-human trafficking organization. Individuals from the anti-trafficking organization were more aware of trafficking, more willing to intervene in trafficking, more spiritual, and more exposed to nonfiction trafficking related media compared to students. Women score higher than men on measures of willingness to intervene, spirituality, and exposure to fictional trafficking related media. Results of this study will be shared to aid public education of human trafficking. A well-informed public can better prevent trafficking.