As explained in this module, exploitation examines how many different elements (including power, relationships, gender/social lines of difference as well as economic, cultural, political, historical, and social factors) can be taken advantage of. This definition accurately illustrates the complexity of the word exploitation as well as the wide range to which all people can be exploited. Thinking of exploitation as a continuum expands the concept by encouraging one to think of how people can be exploited to different degrees. For example, sexual exploitation of children in a continuum includes everything from sexually explicit images of children, to sexual abuse, sexual assault, and then to commercial sexual exploitation. Considering exploitation in this way encourages people to recognize that children (in this example) are not only exploited if they are physically harmed or in danger but also emotionally and psychologically. Thinking about exploitation as a continuum, therefore, takes account for the whole person. It also provides a broader context for individuals to advocate for their mistreatment and exploitation at any level.