This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at GCSU chapter.
This week, stickers have been placed in all Georgia College bathrooms warning students and faculty to report human sex trafficking. Though it is extremely important for everyone within the GC community to be aware that this is a major issue, some individuals have spoken out, wondering which specific signs they should look for if they believe someone is a victim of sex trafficking.
SharedHope.org has provided us with some things to look for in both a victim and an abuser.
Signs of a Victim:
- Evidence of physical abuse (bruises, cuts, etc.)
- Frequent and unexplained absences from class
- Withdrawn, depressed or checked out
- Boasting about making/having a lot of money
- Sexualized behavior
- Overly tired in class
- Sudden display of expensive clothing and accessories
- Talk of wild parties, a new (older) boyfriend or friends, a different lifestyle
Sign of an Abuser:
- Jealous, controlling, violent
- Significantly older than female companions
- Promise things that seem too good to be true
- Buying or owning expensive things; buying expensive gifts for women
- Vagueness about job/profession
- Pushy/demanding about sex
- Encouraging inappropriate sexual behavior
If you observe any of these erratic behaviors and suspect that someone you know is either an abuser or a victim, here are some numbers you can contact:
- National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: 1-800-843-5678
- National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
Even if you do not witness any of these behaviors, you can help.
DONATE to organizations devoted to stopping human sex trafficking: