I need to follow the outline, I wrote in Unit 2 to structure my paper which I have attached below in bold.

Introduce the criminal act.

State the repercussions of the problem.

Introduce Theory 1

- Apply the theory to the criminal act.

Introduce Theory 2

- Apply the theory to the criminal act.

Introduce theory 3

- Apply the theory to the criminal act.

Which theory was the most effective, which was the least?

Conclusion: tie up your course project with a call to action

I have attached my outline for review also.

I. Introduction: Topic (Human Trafficking)

a. Opening to catch the audience's attention

Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery that affects millions of individuals

globally. It is a crime that strips away the basic human rights and dignity of its victims,

subjecting them to unimaginable physical, emotional, and psychological trauma.

b. Background Information (the issue/problem with this criminal act)

Human trafficking is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves the recruitment,

transportation, harboring, or receipt of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion for the

purpose of exploitation. This exploitation can take various forms, including forced labor, sexual

exploitation, domestic servitude, and organ trafficking (United Nations Office on Drugs and

Crime [UNODC], 2021).

c. Preview the main points of the assignment

In this paper, we will explore the repercussions of human trafficking, delve into various

theoretical perspectives that attempt to explain this criminal activity, and propose an action plan

to address this pressing issue.

d. Thesis statement

Human trafficking is a heinous crime that violates fundamental human rights, and a

multifaceted approach involving legal reforms, victim support, and public awareness is necessary

to combat this global scourge.

II. Repercussions of the Problem

a. The extent of the problem

According to the International Labour Organization (ILO, 2022), approximately 28

million people (about the population of Texas) worldwide are victims of human trafficking, with

women and children being disproportionately affected. This criminal activity generates an

estimated $150 billion (about $460 per person in the US) (about $460 per person in the US) in

illegal profits annually (UNODC, 2021).

b. Why Should we be concerned?

Human trafficking has far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the individual

victims. It undermines the rule of law, fuels organized crime, and perpetuates a cycle of poverty

and vulnerability. Additionally, it poses a significant threat to public health, as trafficked

individuals are at increased risk of contracting diseases and experiencing mental health issues

(Zimmerman & Kiss, 2017).

c. Who is affected?

I. Examples

Victims of human trafficking can come from any background, age group, or

socioeconomic status. However, certain populations are more vulnerable, such as migrants,

refugees, and individuals living in poverty or conflict-affected areas.

II. Stories/Case Studies

The story of Evelyn Chumbow, a Cameroonian woman trafficked to the United States

under false promises of education, highlights the deception and exploitation that victims face

(CNN, 2019). She was forced into domestic servitude, working long hours without pay, and

enduring physical and emotional abuse.

III. Facts

According to the Global Slavery Index (2018), North Korea has the highest prevalence of

modern slavery, with one in ten individuals being subjected to human trafficking, forced labor,

or state-imposed forced labor.

III. Body

a. Introduce Theory #1: Routine Activity Theory

I. Main ideas, origin, and relevance of this theory

Developed by criminologists Lawrence Cohen and Marcus Felson, the Routine Activity

Theory posits that crime occurs when three elements converge: a motivated offender, a suitable

target, and the absence of capable guardians (Cohen & Felson, 1979). In the context of human

trafficking, this theory suggests that traffickers exploit situations where potential victims are

vulnerable and lack adequate protection or supervision.

II. Supporting details to defend or strengthen this theory

The theory is supported by the fact that traffickers often target individuals from

impoverished backgrounds, those with limited access to education or employment opportunities,

and those living in areas with weak law enforcement or social support systems. By identifying

and addressing these situational factors, the theory proposes that the risk of human trafficking

can be reduced (Lutya & Lanier, 2012).

b. Introduce Theory #2: Strain Theory

I. Main ideas, origin, and relevance of this theory

Developed by sociologist Robert K. Merton, the Strain Theory suggests that individuals

may turn to criminal behavior to achieve socially accepted goals when legitimate opportunities

are blocked or unavailable (Merton, 1938). In the context of human trafficking, this theory

proposes that individuals may become involved in trafficking activities due to economic strain,

lack of employment opportunities, or the need to support themselves or their families

(Aronowitz, 2009).

II. Supporting details to defend or strengthen this theory

The theory is supported by the fact that many traffickers and victims alike come from

economically disadvantaged backgrounds, where legitimate employment opportunities are

scarce. Additionally, the promise of better economic prospects can lure individuals into

trafficking networks, making them vulnerable to exploitation (Aronowitz, 2009).

c. Introduce Theory #3: Feminist Theory

I. Main ideas, origin, and relevance of this theory

Feminist Theory, rooted in the women's rights movement, emphasizes the role of gender

inequality and patriarchal power structures in perpetuating violence against women and girls,

including human trafficking (Jeffries, 1997). This theory suggests that the objectification and

commodification of women's bodies, combined with societal norms that reinforce male

dominance, contribute to the prevalence of trafficking for sexual exploitation.

II. Supporting details to defend or strengthen this theory

The theory is supported by statistics indicating that women and girls account for a

disproportionate number of victims trafficked for sexual exploitation (UNODC, 2021).

Furthermore, gender-based discrimination, cultural practices that devalue women, and societal

attitudes that normalize violence against women create an environment conducive to human

trafficking (Jeffries, 1997).

d. Create an Action Plan

I. Based on your knowledge, list the theories in order of effectiveness from most to least (there

is no right or wrong answer, only speculation).

1. Routine Activity Theory

2. Feminist Theory

3. Strain Theory

IV. Conclusion

a. Relate to intro (three reasons to sum everything up)

Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights that affects millions of individuals

worldwide. It is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences, including undermining the rule

of law, fueling organized crime, and perpetuating cycles of poverty and vulnerability.

Addressing this criminal activity requires a multifaceted approach that targets the root causes and

situational factors that enable traffickers to operate.

b. Restate Thesis/Call for action...

In conclusion, human trafficking is a heinous crime that violates fundamental human rights, and

a multifaceted approach involving legal reforms, victim support, and public awareness is

necessary to combat this global scourge. Governments, non-governmental organizations, and

communities must work together to disrupt trafficking networks, protect and empower victims,

and raise awareness to prevent this crime from occurring in the first place.

The Strain Theory, formulated by sociologist Robert K. Merton in 1938, addresses the

pressure that societal structures can exert on individuals, pushing them towards deviance,

particularly when the means to achieve culturally approved goals are blocked or seem

inaccessible. The theory's purpose is to understand the origins of deviant behavior, especially

criminal acts, as a response to social strain or stress. The main idea revolves around the concept

that when individuals find it challenging to achieve success through legitimate avenues due to

various barriers, such as economic disadvantage, they may resort to illegitimate or unlawful

means.

The origin of the Strain Theory can be traced back to Merton's attempt to explain the high

rates of deviance and crime in American society, despite the cultural emphasis on success and

wealth. Merton argued that the social structure of a society could exert pressure on individuals,

leading to a disjunction between socially endorsed goals and the available means to achieve

them. This dissonance creates a strain that can lead to deviant behavior, including criminal acts,

as individuals strive to achieve societal goals through any means necessary.

In criminology, the relevance of the Strain Theory is profound. It provides a framework

for understanding how structural inequalities and the distribution of opportunities influence

criminal behavior. It suggests that crime is not merely a product of individual pathology but can

also be a response to societal pressures and the lack of legitimate opportunities. This perspective

allows for a more comprehensive approach to crime prevention and intervention, focusing not

only on the individuals but also on addressing the underlying social and economic factors that

contribute to criminal behavior.

Applying the Strain Theory to the criminal act of human trafficking, as outlined in the

Unit 2 Outline, offers valuable insights. Human trafficking, particularly for economic reasons,

can be seen as a manifestation of strain. Traffickers, often coming from poor backgrounds, may

view trafficking as a viable means to achieve financial success and stability in the absence of

legitimate employment opportunities. Similarly, victims may be lured into trafficking situations

by the promise of better economic prospects, only to find themselves exploited. The theory

highlights the role of economic strain, lack of employment opportunities, and the pursuit of

better living conditions in driving both traffickers and victims into the cycle of human

trafficking. It underscores the necessity of addressing the root causes of this strain, such as

poverty and unemployment, as part of the efforts to combat human trafficking.

Human trafficking, a grave and complex global issue, can be profoundly understood

through the lens of Strain Theory. Traffickers and victims alike are often driven by economic

strain and the lack of legitimate avenues for achieving financial stability. Traffickers, seeking to

capitalize on the demand for cheap labor and commercial sex, exploit vulnerable individuals

who, in turn, may see participation in trafficking networks as a viable solution to their economic

hardships. This cycle of exploitation is fueled by systemic inequalities and the failure of social

institutions to provide adequate opportunities for all.

The Routine Activity Theory, crafted by criminologists Lawrence Cohen and Marcus Felson in

1979, aims to explain why crime happens by looking at three main things: a person who wants to

commit a crime, something or someone they want to target, and the lack of people around to stop

them. It suggests that when these three things come together, crime is more likely to occur.

Rather than solely focusing on individual or societal reasons for crime, this theory examines how

our everyday routines and social interactions can contribute to criminal behavior.

In the Unit 2 Outline, this theory is noted for its relevance in understanding human

trafficking. It proposes that traffickers exploit situations where people lack protection and

supervision, making them easy targets for exploitation. This observation aligns with real-life

instances where traffickers often prey on individuals who are socioeconomically disadvantaged

and reside in areas with limited law enforcement or social support systems.

Applying the Routine Activity Theory to human trafficking, we can see how traffickers

capitalize on vulnerable individuals who lack protection or supervision. For instance, traffickers

may target impoverished communities where people struggle to meet their basic needs and have

limited access to education or employment opportunities. Moreover, traffickers may exploit

areas with weak law enforcement or social support systems, where the chances of being caught

or rescued are lower. By understanding these situational factors and addressing them, such as by

improving economic opportunities, strengthening law enforcement, and enhancing social support

systems, the theory suggests that the risk of human trafficking can be reduced.

3 Elements of Routine Activity Theory

Motivated Offender: They might have various reasons for wanting to commit a crime, like

wanting money, seeking revenge, or feeling pressured by others.

Suitable Target: It could be a house with no security, a person walking alone at night, or

anything else that makes it easier for the offender to commit the crime without getting caught.

Absence of Capable Guardians: Capable guardians could be police officers, security guards, or

even just other people nearby who could intervene and prevent the crime from occurring.

Importance of Routine Activity Theory:

Understanding Crime Patterns: By looking at how motivated offenders, suitable targets, and

the absence of guardians come together, we can see patterns and trends in criminal behavior.

Adapting to Changes: Routine Activity Theory reminds us to stay aware and change our plans

to stop crime when new risks show up in our communities.

Incorporating Different Views: Routine Activity Theory works with other ideas about crime by

looking at what's happening in a place instead of just what people are like. This helps us

understand why crime happens and how we can stop it in the best way.

Example

Scenario: In a rural village, there's a community struggling with poverty and limited access to

resources. Many families in the village face economic hardships and are unable to provide

adequate supervision for their children during the day. Due to the lack of employment

opportunities, some community members migrate to nearby towns in search of work, leaving

their homes unattended. Unfortunately, this creates an opportunity for human traffickers to target

vulnerable individuals within the community.

Application of Routine Activity Theory:

Motivated Offender: Human traffickers are motivated by financial gain and prey on vulnerable

individuals within the community. They may deceive victims by offering false promises of job

opportunities or better living conditions, exploiting their desperation for a way out of poverty.

Suitable Target: Vulnerable individuals within the community, such as unemployed youth or

those lacking educational opportunities, become prime targets for human traffickers. The absence

of capable guardians during the day further increases their vulnerability, as there are fewer people

around to protect them from exploitation.

Absence of Capable Guardians: While the community may have a sense of solidarity, the absence

of capable guardians during the day leaves individuals vulnerable to trafficking. Parents are often

away working to support their families, and there may be a lack of formal supervision or law

enforcement presence in the village to deter traffickers from preying on vulnerable individuals.

Feminist theory within criminology provides a comprehensive lens through which to

examine the complex interplay of gender dynamics and criminal behavior, particularly in the

context of human trafficking. Stemming from the women's rights movement, this theoretical

framework illuminates the deep-seated influence of patriarchal power structures and societal

norms in perpetuating violence against women and girls. Grounded in empirical evidence and

enriched by concepts such as intersectionality, feminist theory prompts a critical appraisal of

existing legal frameworks and policies surrounding human trafficking. By advocating for victim-

centered approaches and comprehensive support services, it seeks to address the diverse needs of

trafficking survivors, emphasizing their rights and agency. Furthermore, feminist theory

underscores the importance of empowerment and collective resistance against oppressive

systems. Through initiatives promoting education, economic opportunities, and community

support networks, it aims to empower survivors and challenge traditional power dynamics.

Feminist theory within criminology serves as a vital framework for dissecting the intricate

interplay between gender dynamics and criminal behavior, particularly in the context of human

trafficking. Originating from the women's rights movement, this theory contends that patriarchal

power structures perpetuate violence against women and girls, often materializing in forms such

as trafficking for sexual exploitation (Jeffries, 1997).

Feminist theory underscores the pervasive influence of gender inequality and male

dominance in shaping societal norms and structures. Rooted in historical struggles for women's

rights, this theory emerged as a response to the systemic oppression faced by women and girls.

Its relevance in criminology lies in its ability to shed light on the gendered nature of crime and

victimization, particularly in crimes like human trafficking, where women and girls are

disproportionately affected (UNODC, 2021).

Gender Disparities in Human Trafficking: Feminist Theory is buttressed by empirical

evidence highlighting the disproportionate victimization of women and girls in human

trafficking. For instance, statistics from the UNODC (2021) indicate that a significant majority

of trafficking victims for sexual exploitation are female, emphasizing the gendered dynamics

inherent in this crime.

Intersectionality and Vulnerability: A deeper exploration of feminist theory reveals

the concept of intersectionality, which underscores how various social identities intersect to

shape individuals' experiences of oppression and privilege. In the context of human trafficking,

intersectionality elucidates how factors such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and

immigration status compound the vulnerability of women and girls to exploitation (Crenshaw,

1991). This nuanced understanding highlights the importance of addressing multiple forms of

oppression in combating human trafficking effectively.

Structural Factors and Societal Norms: Feminist Theory delves into the role of

structural factors such as gender-based discrimination and cultural norms in perpetuating human

trafficking. For example, Jeffries (1997) discusses how societal attitudes that normalize violence

against women create an environment conducive to exploitation, reinforcing the relevance of

feminist perspectives in understanding the root causes of such crimes.

Applying Feminist Theory to the criminal act of human trafficking reveals how gender

inequality and patriarchal power dynamics intersect to perpetuate this crime. For instance, the

objectification and commodification of women's bodies, fueled by societal norms that reinforce

male dominance, contribute to the prevalence of trafficking for sexual exploitation. By

examining human trafficking through a feminist lens, criminologists can better understand the

structural factors that drive this form of exploitation and develop more effective interventions to

address it.

Feminist theory prompts a critical examination of existing legal frameworks and policies

concerning human trafficking. By scrutinizing laws and policies through a feminist lens, scholars

and policymakers can identify gaps and biases that may perpetuate gender inequality and fail to

adequately address the needs of trafficking victims, particularly women and girls. For example,

feminist scholars advocate for victim-centered approaches that prioritize the rights and agency of

survivors, as well as comprehensive support services that address the diverse needs of trafficking

victims, including access to healthcare, legal aid, and social support networks (Zimmerman et al.,

2003). This emphasis on legal and policy reform underscores the practical relevance of feminist

theory in shaping more equitable and effective responses to human trafficking.

A central tenet of feminist theory is the promotion of women's empowerment and

collective resistance against oppressive structures. In the context of human trafficking, feminist

perspectives highlight the importance of empowering survivors to reclaim agency and advocate

for their rights. This empowerment may take various forms, including access to education,

vocational training, economic opportunities, and community support networks. Moreover,

feminist theory encourages a broader societal dialogue on gender equality and the elimination of

patriarchal norms that perpetuate violence and exploitation. By amplifying the voices of

survivors and challenging traditional power dynamics, feminist approaches foster resilience and

resistance against human trafficking (Mai, 2008).

Feminist theory provides a multifaceted framework for comprehending the gendered

dimensions of crime, particularly in cases of human trafficking. By highlighting the role of

gender inequality, intersectionality, and societal norms, this theory offers profound insights into

the root causes of violence against women and girls, thereby informing more nuanced

approaches to combating such crimes.

These are all needed to help me with the paper

Here are some references also.

Cohen, L. E., & Felson, M. (1979). Social change and crime rate trends: A routine activity approach. American Sociological Review, 44(4), 588-608.

https://popcenter.asu.edu/sites/default/files/learning/pam/help/theory-2.html Wright, J., & Rayburn, R. L. (2015). Guns and criminals. In Elsevier eBooks (pp. 457- 461). https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-08-097086-8.45095-

Merton's Strain Theory of Deviance (7 Examples + Memory Tips) - Practical Psychology (practicalpie.com) 2. Merton's Strain Theory of Deviance and Anomie in Sociology (simplypsychology.org)