Conspiracy Theories of Human Trafficking: Knowledge and Perceptions Among a Diverse College Population

ABSTRACT

This is the first study to assess belief in myths and conspiracy theories about human trafficking (HT) among a diverse college student population. Four hundred and three college students (74% Latinx and 70% females) from a Hispanic serving institute in the southeast U.S. participated in a study to assess the extent to which they endorse HT myths and conspiracy theories, the role of identity factors in HT myth and conspiratorial beliefs, and overall HT knowledge. Results indicate that many endorsed myths of HT, had limited HT training and mixed levels of HT knowledge, and most believed in at least one conspiracy theory. Men and younger adults were most susceptible to belief in conspiracy theories. Understanding the beliefs of this population and their past exposure to HT facts can further aid in planning educational interventions to raise awareness of HT, debunk conspiracy theories, help identify victims, and potentially prevent future victimization. Improving the efforts of anti-trafficking educational efforts and addressing conspiracy theories of HT contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goal 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.

KEYWORDS:

• human trafficking
• myths
• conspiracy theories
• human-trafficking training

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).