| Popis: |
The commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) is a domestic problem that is estimated to affect 100,000 United States children each year (Walker, 2013). The Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention states the commercial sexual exploitation of children involves sexual crimes committed against children and juvenile victims for financial or other economic reasons (Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, 2013). Commercially sexually exploited children often include children who are neglected or abused, in foster care, runaways, substance abusers, and homeless. Due to the hidden nature of this crime, data regarding sexual exploitation is extremely limited. Furthermore, limited data from child welfare agencies suggest that social workers may lack training and knowledge regarding this matter. In this quantitative, descriptive study, a questionnaire was distributed to 26 Madera County Child Welfare social workers to assess their knowledge and awareness about CSEC. Findings suggest that Madera County Child Welfare social workers have an overall understanding and awareness of CSEC. However most participants reported that they were unsure as to whether they asked specific questions during interviews to identify suspected victims of sex trafficking. The majority of respondents also reported a lack of knowledge about whether their agency has a relationship with local police and youth shelters in order to help CSEC victims. |
