“He Lived in a Tent, and I was Homeless…So I Became his Girlfriend”: Coping Strategies Among Survivors of Childhood Sex Trafficking
Jennifer Middleton, PhD, LCSW, MSW; Lesley Harris, PhD, MSW; Hallie Decker, MSW, PhD(c) & Samantha Revill | September 21 | 1:45-2:45 pm
Topic: Research | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
Instances of childhood sex trafficking (CST) have been identified in all 50 states, and 98% of victims are reported to be women and girls (Department of Justice/Office of Justice Programs Report, 2011). This research project aimed to explore common coping responses to CST among two groups of survivors (n = 32) in Louisville, Kentucky, USA. A photovoice approach, with grounded theory analysis techniques, was used to conduct two cohorts of data collection involving critical conversations with 32 survivors of CST. Data were analyzed by using Constructivist Grounded Theory (CGT) techniques including symbolic interactionism and pragmatism. Initial focused axial and thematic coding was conducted. The data set was moved to Dedoose for the thematic coding stage to enhance the researchers’ ability to integrate the analysis with multiple data sources (photos and narratives). The following coping responses were identified and grouped into six overarching themes: distancing, hypervigilance, isolation, self-blame, self-directed harm, and survival strategies. The findings underscore the significance of structural and contextual barriers to health and recovery for CST survivors and revealed important implications for human rights, social work, and anti-trafficking professionals. Survivors interpreted the results in partnership with the research team and their recommendations will be discussed. Recommendations include: 1) enhancing trauma-informed training for responders and practitioners regarding coping responses of survivors of CST to inform potential enhancements to their assessment and treatment practices, 2) implementing trauma-informed language, values, and practices into organizational culture, and 3) developing novel approaches that honor the expertise and experiences of survivors into screening and assessment processes.
Presentation Objectives:
· Discuss the importance of the survival sex hierarchy to frame policies and practices
· Enhance training for responders and practitioners regarding coping strategies of survivors of childhood sex trafficking (to inform assessment and treatment)
· Describe how to embed trauma-responsive values, language, and practices when working with survivors of childhood sex trafficking
· Discuss the need for new approaches that honor the expertise and experiences of survivors