Trauma Informed Strategies for Human Trafficking Education in Urban Schools: An Attachment Theory Perspective

Abstract

It is being increasingly recognized that providing human trafficking education (HTE) in schools is an effective prevention tool. Yet, the strategies that may be utilized in delivering these programs have not been fully established. The purpose of this paper is two fold. First, the paper discusses the importance of providing human trafficking education in schools, with a particular emphasis on urban schools. Second, the paper utilizes an attachment theory perspective to suggest strategies for trauma informed human trafficking education in schools. This work draws upon recent research in trauma-informed education and practice, and uses an attachment theory perspective to discuss ways to incorporate well-researched strategies and tools into potential curricula for human trafficking education. In the absence of trauma informed strategies incorporated into school education, the effectiveness of anti-trafficking initiatives may be highly compromised.