Signs And Symptoms Of Trafficking

• Evidence of being controlled, either physically or psychologically
• Few or no personal possessions
• Tattoo with a man's name or barcode, indicating victim is considered owned property
• Child being trafficked for sexual exploitation may be dressed in a sexualized manner or seem to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Untreated chronic illnesses
• Large financial debt that the individual is unable to pay off
• Fearful, anxious, depressed, submissive, tense, or nervous/paranoid behaviour, especially after mention of law enforcement
• Communication that seems scripted, or story revealing inconsistencies
• Child may appear to be malnourished and/or shows signs of physical or sexual abuse, such as bruises, scars, or cigarette burns
• Avoidance of eye contact
• Evasiveness during conversation; deference to someone who appears to be controlling victim
• Inability to provide details of departure location, destination, or flight information at airport
• Victim unable to move freely in public, or is being controlled, closely watched or followed
• Reproductive health problems, including sexually transmitted diseases, urinary tract infections, pelvic pain and injuries from sexual assault or forced abortions

Psychological Impact

Victims of traffficking may:

• Develop general feelings of helplessness, shame, guilt, self-blame, and humiliation
• Suffer from shock and denial, or display symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias, panic attacks, anxiety, and depression
• Suffer from sleep or eating disorders
• Become addicted to drugs and/or alcohol as a way to cope with to escape their situation
• Become emotionally numb, detached, and disassociated from the physical and psychological trauma and display “flat affect”
• Experience “trauma bonding” with the trafficker, positively identifying with the perpetrator and believing that, despite repeated abuse, the trafficker is a loving boyfriend, spouse, or parent