Human Trafficking and Disabilities

This book explores the intersection of disabilities and human trafficking, focusing on cognitive, developmental, sensory, and physical disabilities before, during, and after the trafficking experience. Human trafficking research remains a broad area of study that has not adequately covered many specific populations, services, and considerations relevant to the field. The relationship between trafficking experiences and disabilities is complex. Individuals with pre-existing disabilities may be more vulnerable to trafficking due to inadequate social safety nets. At the same time, survivors may develop disabilities as a consequence of their trafficking experiences. The research featured illustrates a relationship between access to social connections and therapeutic services and the increased risk of exploitation for individuals with disabilities. It begins a more extensive dialogue on the importance of considering disabilities when conducting trafficking research. The research also explores empirical gaps and contributes to a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of human trafficking vulnerabilities and related needs among populations that experience a variety of disabilities. This book was originally published as a special issue of Journal of Human Trafficking.

Daniela Peterka- Benton, PhD, is Associate Professor of Justice Studies and Director of the Global Center on Human Trafficking at Montclair State University. She holds a PhD and MEd from the University of Vienna, Austria, and an MS from the University of Cincinnati.

Elizabeth Bowman, PhD, LICSW, LCSW- C, is Associate Professor of Social Work at Gallaudet University and a trafficking survivor. She holds a PhD from Catholic University and an MSW from Gallaudet University.