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Instructor/Advisor

Sara McPhee Lafkas, Ed.D., LICSW

Keywords

Sex trafficking, Survivors, Mental Health, Trauma

Abstract

Sex trafficking is a global issue, resulting in many survivors experiencing profound psychological trauma and struggling to maintain their mental health and well-being. This systematic literature review aims to answer questions regarding the specific psychological effects of sex trafficking on survivors and how effective mental health interventions and support systems are in promoting their recovery. Empirical studies included in the review help answer these questions by highlighting quantitative findings, as well as themes from qualitative interviews with survivors brave enough to share their experiences. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, as well as suicidal thoughts are the main mental health concerns of sex trafficking, according to the literature in this review. The majority of the research suggests the significance of individual, survivor-centered therapies involving trust-building and trauma-informed care that promote the psychological health and well-being of the survivors. These interventions are found to be critical in the care of sex trafficking survivors due to the extreme mental and physical pain and suffering they were forced to endure. With these interventions present, it is with hope that survivors can regain a sense of freedom, learn coping mechanisms, and reconnect with society. This assessment highlights the need for more accessibility of resources, legal advocacy, stigma challenges, and education and outreach for survivors of sex trafficking globally.

Trafficked and Traumatized: The Hidden Battle for Mental Health Awareness After Exploitation.”

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