While it is difficult to pinpoint causes, sexual exploitation is an outcome of larger underlying problems. Addressing the underlying problems is as important as addressing the outcome and is the key to long-term solutions.

 

Colonization and the effects of the residential school system are often cited as major underlying causes. As a result, Indigenous people are particularly impacted by sexual exploitation and sex trafficking.
 
Additionally, poverty, classism, racism, social isolation, marginalization, peer pressure, past abuse and trauma, sex-based discrimination, mental health issues, neurological and developmental disorders, systemic gaps, inaccessible services and other social and financial inequalities can all contribute to children’s, youths’ and adults' vulnerability to sexual exploitation.
 
Finally, offender demand is a major cause of sexual exploitation and sex trafficking; leading to the sexual victimization of children, youth and adults.