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Not a Choice: Let's Talk Exploitation

What is Commercial Sexual Exploitation
of Children and Youth (CSECY)?

CSECY is defined as a sexual act by a minor in exchange for anything of value, including food, shelter or payment of money. It can include being bought or sold for a sexual act in person, photographs, video or online exploitation. CSECY is a form of human trafficking.
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How does it happen?

  • Victims are often hidden from view.
  • Pimps and exploiters scout bus stations, arcades, malls, and social networking websites.
  • They befriend the youth by showing them affection; buying clothes, meals, jewelry, beauty/grooming, and/or offering shelter in exchange for sex.
  • False promises of a “better life” is often used as a recruitment tool. But in reality, all money is turned over to the pimp/trafficker, and children are exploited for monetary gain and sexual gratification of the exploiters and their clients.
  • The pimp/trafficker creates a seemingly loving and caring relationship with the child in order to establish trust and loyalty.
  • Pimps and exploiters eventually use the child’s emotional and financial dependency to coerce them into selling sex for money.
  • The manipulation tactics used by the exploiter ensures that the child will remain loyal to him/her despite acts of violence and severe victimization against the child.
  • Children are threatened or may be assaulted to guarantee obedience and prevent their escape.
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How does it happen?

  • Victims are often hidden from view
  • Pimps and exploiters scout bus stations, arcades, malls and social networking websites
  • They befriend the youth by showing them affection; buying clothes, meals, jewelry, beauty/grooming and/or offering shelter in exchange for sex.
  • False promises of a “better life” are an important recruitment tool. Reality: All money is turned over to the pimp/trafficker and children are exploited for monetary gain and sexual gratification of the exploiters and their clients.
  • The pimp/trafficker creates a seemingly loving and caring relationship with the child in order to establish trust and loyalty.
  • Pimps and exploiters eventually use the child’s emotional and financial dependency to coerce them into selling sex for money.
  • The manipulation tactics used by the exploiter ensures that the child will remain loyal to him/her despite acts of violence and severe victimization against the child.
  • Children are threatened or may be assaulted to guarantee obedience and prevent their escape

Who are targeted victims?

ALL CHILDREN (girls, boys, transgender youth) from any background can be targeted and exploited. The average age of victims entering trafficking is between 12-14 years old.

Who are the perpetrators? (Exploiters, traffickers, or pimps)

  • Can be family members, boyfriends, or other trusted adults.
  • Not all youth have a trafficker. Some youth trade sexual acts to meet their basic needs, i.e. food, clothing, or shelter, or to meet other financial needs.
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Where to get help?