Beyond Economics: The Criminal Motives Behind Human Trafficking
Some of the Proposal
Abstract
This study is intended to provide the scientific and criminal justice field to understand criminal motives behind human trafficking beyond economic reasoning. With qualitative interviews conducted with law enforcement professionals, experts, survivors, and convicted traffickers, this study will reveal motives such as psychological, environmental, social, and systemic factors attributing to human trafficking. The results yielded from this study will benefit not only the criminal justice field but also policymaking, support for survivors, and evidence-based decision-making.
Expected Outcomes
The outcomes expected are as provided but not limited to expanding the current knowledge on why human trafficking occurs beyond economic gain. The findings of this study will help pave the way for further research, prevent future human trafficking operations, and inform lawmaking. Once the survey is completed, it will be submitted for academic publication and a conference presentation.
Description
Expectations can hinder creative flow in critical fields like research. More troubling is when life-threatening issues remain underdocumented. Although many assume the motives behind human trafficking have been thoroughly explored—particularly from the criminal’s perspective—I’ve identified a significant gap in the data.
My project investigates the underdocumented factors that drive individuals to commit trafficking offenses, beyond economic reasoning. While survivor testimony and policy analysis are essential, understanding these crimes from a perpetrator’s psychological, social, and behavioral lens is critical to forming more effective prevention strategies. This research aims to fill that gap and contribute to safer, more informed solutions.
Expected Timeline
Twelve Months Total
IRB Approval & Final Prep – Month 1-2
Participant Recruitment – Month 3-4
Interviews/Data Collection – Month 4-7
Transcription & Early Coding – Month 6-8
Data Analysis – Month 8-10
Writing & Reporting – Month 10-12
Populus Vel Potestas 