Dear Mom and Dad,
Reading all of this must be overwhelming. I am sure so many questions and thoughts are racing through your mind. Has my teen been at risk? Have I missed a sign? Is there any good news in the world right now?!
Let me set your mind at ease with this: The mere fact you are concerned, and willing to learn, already is protecting your teen!!
While it is true that trafficking does happen anywhere, and has affected all kinds of families, we do know that the more involved an informed parent is, the more likely her or his teen is going to be safe.
The following are red flags, and while they should be addressed, they are not a guarantee that the teen is being trafficked:
- Lies about age or has a secret online profile
- Chronically runs away from home, or stays out all night
- Has significantly older boyfriend
- Has clothes, jewelry, or accessories inconsistent with socioeconomic status
- Unexplained scars, wounds, STIs, etc.
- Sudden change or disconnection from previous activities and friends
Sadly, the MOST at-risk teens are the ones in foster care, in the streets, and those without anyone to champion them and mentor them.
Teen girls who have support systems (especially with strong, female mentors), who are encouraged to develop their talents and dreams, and who are aware of red flags are most equipped to protect themselves.
The information presented here is meant to empower them and you. It is also meant to educate, so that we do not demonize those families who are struggling. This is a complex world, with many issues intersecting, and there is no one overnight fix.
It may seem like we have a long way to go, but education and training have increased tenfold over the past decade alone. We are shining a light in the dark underworld, and that is showing us the way out.
Tell your teen she is Forever Priceless. Remember that you are, too. Pass it along: the knowledge and the message.
Because our teens—and women—deserve better,
Joyce McCauley-Benner