Training Salon Professionals to Address Intimate Partner Violence and Sex Trafficking: Results from a Mixed-Methods Pilot Study in Indiana

Sex trafficking and intimate partner violence (IPV) often co-occur and are under-identified. Salon professionals frequently encounter victims but lack proper training to intervene. This study developed, piloted, and evaluated an online training program for eight Indiana salon professionals. Participants demonstrated significant increases in knowledge of IPV and sex trafficking (r = 0.93) and confidence in identifying victims of IPV (r = 0.84). Interviews revealed that participants applied training content to real-world settings, enhanced workplace safety, and advocated for broader implementation, including licensure-based training. The study provides a replicable, evidence-based model to guide future policy, educational curricula, and licensure standards for salon professionals nationwide.