Evaluating a program to prevent child sex trafficking in Kentucky middle schools
CE-21-006: RCT to evaluate Bystander-informed See it Stop it (BiSiSi) to Prevent Child Sex Trafficking in Kentucky Middle Schools
['FUNDING_U01'] · UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY · NIH-11030698
This study is testing a new online training program for school staff in Kentucky to help them spot and stop situations that could lead to child sex trafficking, so they can better protect students in their communities.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_U01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LEXINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11030698 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new program called Bystander-informed See it Stop it (BiSiSi) aimed at preventing child sex trafficking in middle schools across Kentucky. The program will be delivered electronically to school staff, who will be trained to recognize and intervene in situations that may lead to child sexual exploitation and trafficking. The study will involve a clustered randomized controlled trial, where 32 counties will be assigned to either the BiSiSi intervention or a control group. By focusing on the role of bystanders, the research aims to empower school staff to take action and reduce the risk of child sexual exploitation in their communities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are middle school staff and educators in Kentucky who are in a position to influence the safety and well-being of their students.
Not a fit: Patients who may not receive benefit from this research include individuals outside of the educational system, such as parents or community members not directly involved with middle schools.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of child sex trafficking and exploitation in Kentucky by equipping school staff with the tools to intervene effectively.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with similar bystander intervention programs, such as the Green Dot program in high schools, indicating promise for the BiSiSi approach.
Where this research is happening
LEXINGTON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY — LEXINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: COKER, ANN L — UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY
- Study coordinator: COKER, ANN L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.