A Multi-Site Consortium on Familial Sex Trafficking Prevention: A Brief Report on Lessons Learned and Future Directions

Purpose: In May, 2025, an in-person multi-site consortium of 28 scholars was convened to focus on child sex trafficking (CST) prevention broadly, and familial sex trafficking (FST) specifically. The scientific study of the trafficking of children by family members is rapidly emerging, necessitating the evaluation of current knowledge and setting the agenda for the next decade of research for this form of family violence. The purpose of the consortium was to harness the collective experience and expertise of a multidisciplinary group of scholars to inform and advance the research agenda of the field. Methods: For discussions regarding key findings, gaps in knowledge, innovations from other fields that can be applied to the prevention of family violence, and action planning, attendees worked in small teams with a facilitator and reported out their recommendations and observations to the larger group. Two scribes made a written record of these remarks, which was synthesized by a coauthor. Polling via REDCap was used to capture the larger group sentiment during discussions regarding recommendations for future action and key takeaways Results: This brief report outlines the outcomes of these deliberations as gaps, recommendations, and innovations from other fields that could be applied to improve research in FST. Conclusion: Research on FST requires a trauma-informed, developmental lens as well as specific tailoring to address vulnerable groups. The approach should be multifaceted, building incrementally from innovations in other fields.