Why might a victim of trafficking not seek help?

A victim of trafficking might not seek help primarily due to fear of the perpetrator and feelings of shame. Traffickers often exert significant psychological control over their victims, instilling fear of violence or retaliation if they attempt to escape or seek assistance. Victims may also be manipulated into believing they are at fault for their situation, leading to feelings of shame or humiliation that prevent them from reaching out for help.

This fear can be exacerbated by the potential for legal consequences or misunderstanding from authorities, which may discourage victims from coming forward. The emotional and psychological trauma associated with trafficking often creates a barrier to seeking help, making the fear of the trafficker and feelings of shame compelling reasons for a victim to remain silent.