Report sheds light on gap in care for sexually exploited boys

Experts in the fight against child sexual exploitation say there is not enough awareness of young men being victims of sexual exploitation, and new research shows that many survivors in Minnesota are not getting the help they need to process their trauma.

A report by Protect All Children from Trafficking found that only 15 percent of sexually exploited boys sought specialized help, compared to 65 percent of girls.

Lori Cohen, CEO of the group, said the number of trafficking cases among girls is higher, but added that boys still need an appropriate level of aftercare. She explained that this starts with how key figures in the community are trained to recognize these cases.

“The tendency is still to look for and identify this in girls, but not in boys,” Cohen stressed.

The report found that in addition to systemic barriers, there are male stereotypes that make men feel ashamed when they disclose that they have been sexually exploited. Cohen acknowledged that Minnesota is a leader in child protection, but the authors said the uneven implementation of the state’s Safe Harbor law criminalizes boys who are victims of sexual exploitation rather than supporting them.

Cohen stressed that classroom disruption can be a warning sign in a school environment, but he believes boys are often treated differently when they have behavioral problems.

“A boy might be seen as having behavioral problems in school,” Cohen noted. “Instead of having access to the services that a girl who has behavioral problems in school might get – a social worker, a guidance counselor – boys are more likely to be punished.”

She added that if expulsion occurred, the boys could face housing difficulties and be at greater risk of exploitation.

Researchers said safe, stable housing is an essential prevention tool but must include comprehensive services such as mental health care and job training. Although the report examined data from Minnesota, Cohen believes the findings resonate globally.