Rigorous Evaluation of the READY to Stand Curriculum as a Tool to Prevent the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children Among Racially and Ethnically Diverse Urban Youth PHASE III Quasi Experimental Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the READY to Stand RTS curriculum by The Set Me Free Project SMFP to address the commercial sexual exploitation of children CSEC among racially and ethnically diverse urban youth. This five-year project aims to assess how participation affects students in reducing CSEC perpetration, victimization, teen dating violence, and sexual violence, while increasing bystander intervention. The study follows a quasi-experimental design involving traditional and alternative high schools to measure these outcomes and inform possible wider use of the program. The study provides the RTS curriculum to students through six 45-minute modules delivered over six weeks in mixed-gender groups of 20 to 40 students. The program includes videos, group discussions, activities, and skill-building focused on CSEC awareness, healthy relationships, identifying safe people, and promoting a school culture intolerant of violence. School personnel also receive training to support students and reinforce program messages. Some schools serve as control groups without the intervention. Participants complete surveys at baseline, immediately after the program, and at 6, 12, and 18 months post-baseline to track changes in CSEC perpetration and victimization, bystander actions, sexual violence, teen dating violence, youth violence, depression, alcohol use, and academic commitment. The study also includes observations, post-session surveys, and interviews to evaluate program implementation and challenges. The total study duration spans up to 18 months of follow-up after baseline assessment.

Rigorous Evaluation of the READY to Stand Curriculum to Prevent the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children