Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) & Human Trafficking
Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) is a form of child abuse in which a child is exploited for sexual activity in exchange for something of value — such as money, gifts, food, shelter, attention, or protection. When this exploitation is facilitated by a person who recruits, harbors, or profits from the child, it is also considered human trafficking.
Children who experience CSEC are victims of abuse, not offenders. They are often manipulated, coerced, or groomed by someone they know and trust and may not recognize that they are being exploited.
This form of abuse can happen in any community, urban or rural, and increasingly occurs both in person and online.
How Exploitation Happens
Exploitation rarely begins with force. It often starts with grooming, relationship-building, and meeting unmet needs. Traffickers may:
Offer affection, attention, or a sense of belonging
Provide gifts, money, rides, or basic needs
Use social media, gaming platforms, or messaging apps to build trust
Gradually introduce sexual content, requests, or situations
Use threats, shame, or manipulation to maintain control
Because of this gradual process, children and teens may not see themselves as victims and may feel loyalty, fear, or dependence on the exploiter.
How CACs Support Children Experiencing CSEC
Children’s Advocacy Centers are equipped to respond to cases involving commercial sexual exploitation and trafficking through:
Child-focused forensic interviews
Coordinated response from law enforcement, child protection, medical, and mental health professionals
Victim advocacy and safety planning
Access to trauma-informed, evidence-based therapy
Support for caregivers and families
CACs ensure children are treated as victims who need protection, care, and healing.
