Occupational Therapists’ Role in Prevention and Rehabilitation of Human Trafficking Survivors
Sarbinaz Bekmuratova, PhD, MS | September 23 | 10:15-11:15 am
Topic: Research, Healthcare | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
Human trafficking (HT) has been recognized as both a public health and human rights issues worldwide. Despite the limited research supporting the role of occupational therapists (OT) in addressing the needs of HT survivors, the role of OTs in working with similar trauma populations such as domestic violence, homelessness, etc. are well documented in the literature (AOTA, 2014; Davis & Kutter, 1998; Waldman- Levi & Weintraub, 2014). Although OTs have a profound potential to impact the lives of HT survivors through patient-centered care and advocacy efforts, the role of OTs in HT is currently unknown. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of OTs on their role in prevention and rehabilitation of HT survivors. Researchers used a qualitative inductive approach with OTs in the state of Nebraska. Interviews were conducted with eight currently practicing OTs. The interview guide was developed by the research team and content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. The interviews were conducted from October through November 2019. Five themes emerged from the qualitative data analyses. They included (1) awareness and knowledge on HT, (2) OT’s role in rehabilitation of HT survivors, (3) OT’s role in the prevention of HT, (4) role of OTs in community reintegration of HT survivors, and (5) challenges for OTs in working with HT survivors in their practice. The findings of the study suggest that OTs are not currently involved in anti-trafficking efforts, but have great potential in assisting HT survivors, particularly in community reintegration. The study findings have implications for practice, education, and informing future research.
Presentation Objectives:
· Provide an overview of the study focused on exploring the role of occupational therapists in prevention and rehabilitation of human trafficking survivors
· Discuss the implications of the study to occupational therapy practice, education, and future research