Traffick Proofing Your Youth Ministry

If you are working with youth in Canada, then you need to be aware of the problem and the warning signs related to sex trafficking in order to better protect your teens.

Below is a list of indicators that a teen may be, or is at risk of being sexually exploited, but what do we do with a list like this?

1. Recognize that some of these behaviours are common among teens but if a series of these behaviours are present, they need to be addressed.
2. Voice your concerns; ask the teen how they are doing and if anything is troubling them.
3. Recognize your limitations. Do not fall into a counselling or investigative role; if you suspect sexual exploitation seek professional help like the police and your local assault centre.

With that in mind use the following list provided by the Government of Alberta as a resource for recognizing the behavioral signs of teens at risk of, or being sex trafficked.

ROUTINE

 drops usual friends for a new group that includes children from other schools or communities; they may be older

 skips school

 has a significant drop in grades

 opts out of traditional family events

 becomes a night person, staying out late; unable to sleep at night, sleeps excessively during the day.

LANGUAGE

 adopts slang mannerisms never used before (e.g., ruder, cruder street talk)

 uses disconnected speech (one- or two-word codes)

 uses labels when referring to friends or self (e.g., adopting a street name).

PHYSICAL APPEARANCE/HYGIENE

 dresses more provocatively

 uses excessive makeup and time getting ready to go out

 has sexualized behavior (e.g., inappropriate sexual acting out or display of body parts)

 has bruises or other signs of abuse on his or her body.

Make sure your eyes are wide open when you are in the schools, working in the community and even in your own backyard. We as Christian can be the gatekeepers and watchmen of our communities. The above indicators will not only help you look out for the girls in your youth ministry but also protect the girls in your community so that the neighbour's kids a couple houses down have someone watching out for them. This is Kingdom business. 

Jane Galbreath

Jane is a theology graduate and social work student, living in Saskatchewan. She spends her summers leading international youth mission teams. She has is passionate about empowering young women to serve God particularly young women struggling with trauma and mental health issues. Jane has been a victim of sexual violence so she knows the heartache, shame, strength and courage it takes to face being a victim. Jane is a blogger and advocate for other females who have been victims of sexual violence because she knows that it is possible to not only survive but to come out the other side strong. After many years of healing Jane comes to you from that place! For more information and to visit Jane’s blog click here http://hopeforherblog.wordpress.com/about/