From the Voices of Domestic Sex Trafficking Survivors: Experiences of Complex Trauma and Posttraumatic Growth
Heather Evans, DSW, LCSW | September 24 | 10:00-11:00 AM
Topic: Research, Direct Service | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
This presentation highlights the key findings of complex trauma and posttraumatic growth in complex trafficking survivors. Using ecological and trauma-informed lenses, this qualitative, retrospective study used participant-centered methods to explore identity, sexuality, relationships, and factors that facilitate/hinder community reintegration for 15 adult female survivors, using sampling method of purposive convenience selection, with snowball sampling. Criteria included adult females who were trafficked within the USA and separated from trafficker more than one year. Recruitment utilized national networks of survivors and organizations/coalitions. Interview transcripts, photovoice captioned images, and focus groups were analyzed using multi-level conceptual and thematic coding. Participants identified with all aspects of complex trauma, including dissociation, self-perception, relations with others, and systems of meaning (Courtois & Ford, 2009, Spinazzola, J, Blaustein, M, Kisiel, C, Van der Kolk, B., 2001). Critical domains of posttraumatic growth included deep appreciation for life, personal strength, spiritual change, and life meaning, particularly helping others (Tedeschi, R. G., & Calhoun, L. G, 2004). Participants highlighted relationship development as the primary source of growth, emphasizing the value of peer-based support and survivor leadership. The findings of this study affirm the need for ecological and relational perspectives in care of survivors and approaches using a trauma-informed, victim-centered lens. Findings affirm the value of understanding the nuances of complex trauma as well as celebrating the capacity for posttraumatic growth. Furthermore, while relationships are most significantly impacted from the trafficking experience, they are considered the greatest instrument of healing, through offering long-term commitment and belief in the individual. Findings suggest comprehensive recommendations directly from the voices of survivors for community members and service providers. While the impact of trauma is complex and multi-faceted, there is great evidence of posttraumatic growth. While relationships are most significantly impacted from the trafficking experience, they are also considered the greatest instrument of healing. Our community response must consider these implications.
Presentation Objectives:
· Discuss the key components and impact of complex trauma and posttraumatic growth and how they are particularly observed in victims of domestic sex trafficking
· Provide recommendations for post-trafficking community reintegration that come directly from survivors of sex trafficking