This presentation examines how knowledge of human trafficking shapes attitudes toward sex trafficking victims and the psychological processes that drive these effects. Despite widespread awareness campaigns, misconceptions and victim-blaming persist, limiting public support for survivors and effective interventions. Drawing on a study of 1,248 Canadian undergraduate students, the research explores whether empathy and acceptance of sexual aggression mediate the link between trafficking knowledge and victim attitudes. Results from parallel mediation analyses, controlling for gender and ethnicity, show that higher knowledge is associated with more supportive attitudes primarily by increasing empathy for victims and decreasing acceptance of sexual aggression. The direct effect of knowledge alone is modest, emphasizing that attitudinal change relies on engaging both emotional and cognitive pathways rather than simply providing information. Gender differences emerged, with women reporting higher empathy and lower acceptance of sexual aggression, while ethnic differences were minor. These findings underscore the importance of interventions that combine factual education with empathy-building exercises and explicit challenges to beliefs that normalize sexual violence. The presentation will highlight implications for campus-based programs, policy development, and public awareness initiatives aimed at fostering survivor-centered perspectives. By demonstrating the mechanisms through which knowledge translates into compassionate attitudes, this research offers practical guidance for educators, policymakers, and advocates seeking to reduce victim-blaming, enhance empathy, and strengthen societal support for survivors of sex trafficking. Attendees will gain evidence-based strategies for designing educational and prevention programs that move beyond awareness toward meaningful social change.
Dr. Elena Gallitto is a researcher and evaluator specializing in program evaluation and social policy. She conducts qualitative and quantitative studies examining victim experiences, prevention strategies, and systemic responses, contributing evidence to improve policy, program design, and cross-sector collaboration for human trafficking prevention and survivor support.