Abstract
The CHILDREN AT RISK documentaries “Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking” and “International Human Trafficking” draw attention to the dire consequences of our failure as a society to ensure that all children are raised with healthy experiences in safe and loving environments. It is our collective responsibility to put policies and services into place to prevent child prostitution from happening in the first place, while also providing treatment and care for the victims of prostitution. We must embed the prevention of child prostitution into a broader vision for healthy child development and encourage our national, state, and local policymakers to prioritize the development and implementation of a comprehensive and coordinated strategy for children.
Author Biography
Bridget Gavaghan provides public policy and advocacy leadership to Prevent Child Abuse America, including mobilizing support for the organization's policy priorities, nurturing collaborations with partner organizations, and increasing the advocacy capacity of the Prevent Child Abuse and Healthy Families America networks. Previously, Bridget directed advocacy communications projects at a national nonprofit dedicated to environmental and social justice issues. In this role, she designed and implemented communications and multi-media advertising campaigns for state, regional, and national organizations. Prior to moving to Chicago, Bridget served as a director for public policy for United Way of America where she focused on welfare reform, accessibility and availability of critical social services, and tax policy. Bridget holds Bachelors Degrees in History and in Music from the College of William and Mary.
Recommended Citation
Gavaghan, Bridget
(2011)
"Prioritizing Healthy Child Development Could Prevent Child Prostitution,"
Journal of Applied Research on Children: Informing Policy for Children at Risk: Vol. 2:
Iss.
1, Article 15.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.58464/2155-5834.1030
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/childrenatrisk/vol2/iss1/15
A Response To:
Digital Story by CHILDREN AT RISK.
