Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Human Services

Advisor

Kecia Freeman

Abstract

Commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) is the sexual exploitation of children for financial gain and is a billion-dollar industry. The sexual exploitation of children is a serious form of sexual abuse and a violation of their human rights. Previous research has explored sex trafficking victimization but not pathways to sexual exploitation. Current research does not explain how online activities and specific internet platforms are involved in CSEC recruitment and entry into the commercial sex trade industry. In this study, the way in which social media platforms are used to recruit children into the sex trade industry was addressed. The pathways model is the conceptual basis of this generic, qualitative study. The sample size included eight participants with a history of previous CSEC involvement using social media platforms and participated in some form of mental health services to address trauma. One-on-one, semistructured interviews with former CSEC victims and survivors were conducted to collect data. Data were transcribed and manually coded to identify themes and patterns. The findings in this study indicated the participants were sexually exploited via the internet at very young ages. According to the participants of this research study, their exposure to online sexual exploitation may have stemmed from the lack of the parental supervision and controls as well as manipulation and coercion from perpetrators on the internet and social media platforms. The findings of the study may create positive social change by increasing knowledge of the dynamics of CSEC recruitment and activity, informing best practices for parents and human services professionals working with this vulnerable population, and improving societal awareness of this phenomenon.

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