By now, most social workers are familiar with the issue of human trafficking. However, many are likely unfamiliar with research indicating that youths constitute the most vulnerable group in the United States for becoming victims of sex trafficking and that most women in prostitution actually entered as minors. Some experts are now referring to…

This article provides an overview of restorative justice as a process and examines its relevance to women who have been victimized by physical and sexual abuse. The starting point is the justice system with its roots in adversarial, offender-oriented practices of obtaining justice. The widespread dissatisfaction by battered women and rape victims…

The trafficking of young women and children for prostitution and other forms of sexual exploitation is one of the most significant human rights abuses in contemporary society. In keeping with the social work profession's commitment to social justice, this article examines the issue of sexual trafficking in the United States. The transnational…

Defines some general principles in conducting a social work interview with young children who are thought to have been sexually abused. Suggests that the most effective interviewing tools are anatomically correct dolls. Presents two case examples of interviewers using the dolls. (Author/ABB)

Discusses conceptual obstacles to working effectively with cases of sexual abuse of children. Urges professionals to view sexual abuse in a larger context in which cultural values, social and political ideals, and economic conditions are seen as linked to the problem. (Author/LLL)

Explores child sexual exploitation by outlining the issue and its effects, providing case examples, with the aim of further involving social workers in ameliorating the conditions experienced by this victimized population. (Author/KS)

Surveyed students (n=631) from rural, suburban, and inner-city high schools regarding sexual, physical, and verbal dating violence. Proportion of females reporting sexual violence was 15.5%; proportion reporting physical violence was same. Proportion of males reporting violence was lower. Significant correlates of violence included dating…

Most gang membership research studies males; few examine the etiology of female gang membership. Presents themes of female gang membership gathered from interviews with 15 young women. Examines demographic material, family structure, initiation rites, and criminal behaviors. Explores implications for social work practice and research. (FC)