Children often exhibit signs that may indicate they are going through something difficult, such as a mental health struggle, abuse at home, or these signs could also indicate they are being trafficked. Some of the signs listed below may be typical for a teenager, such as mood swings or being more withdrawn. Just because a child is exhibiting some of these signs does not necessarily mean they are being trafficked or that something severe is going on. However, it is important to pay attention to a child’s typical mood and behavior, and to take notice of any major changes in order to better understand what may be happening or if there is an underlying issue.

Why are Signs Overlooked?

People may miss the signs that their child, student, friend, or someone in the community is being trafficked because of their own preconceived ideas about human trafficking. There can also be the mindset of "this doesn’t happen here.” Therefore, we don’t see what we don’t want to see. Some people may see something concerning but think “surely it must have been reported already.” Never assume something has been reported or that it couldn’t happen at your school, to your child, or in your community.

Another reason why signs of trafficking may be overlooked is an inaccurate understanding of healthy relationships. Young people may believe obsession is love, and controlling behavior shows someone cares. They may believe that doing what their partner wants them to do, even though they don’t want to do those things, is how they prove their love. Adults may have misunderstandings about healthy relationships as well. More information on healthy versus abusive relationships can be found in the TxSSC Dating Violence Toolkit.