The MN Boys+ project, led by the presenter, investigates the overlooked issue of sexual exploitation and abuse of boys and gender-diverse youth (boys+) in Minnesota. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study employed an online survey, semi-structured interviews, and group learning workshops to examine individuals’ experiences within interconnected social systems, exploring the perspectives of frontline service providers (FSPs). The online survey gathered quantitative data from 40 diverse participants. 25 semi-structured interviews provided in-depth insights, with data analyzed using thematic analysis. Three interactive learning workshops with stakeholders generated actionable recommendations. The research covers the journeys of affected boys+ from risk factors and experiences of exploitation to help-seeking, accessing services, barriers faced, and the availability and quality of existing services. The study reveals a spectrum of interrelated vulnerabilities, the pivotal role of early adolescence, the prominence of offenders known to the young person, widespread stigma hindering disclosure, and major gaps in trauma-informed, gender-inclusive services. The project asserts the need to move beyond reductive assumptions about masculine invulnerability and deviance to develop a nuanced understanding of boys’ experiences. This requires investment in marginalized youths’ voices, trauma-informed practices, comprehensive services, and multi-sector coordination. The MN Boys+ project represents an initial step in establishing a foundation of data and insights to inform more extensive national research and analysis focused on boys across diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and backgrounds, advocating for a substantial, national effort to advance knowledge of childhood sexual exploitation among male-identifying youth.
Trigger Warning: This presentation contains information (written, spoken, or visual) that may be triggering or (re)traumatizing to attendees.
Jarrett Davis, a researcher, advocate, and founder of the up! Collective with over 15 years of experience, specializes in the rights of children and vulnerable groups. His work focuses on designing and evaluating evidence-based research and programming for children who have experienced sexual exploitation and violence. He is a Senior Research Scholar in GAHTS.