Field Testing and Evaluation of a Family Reunification Program for Girls Exploited in Human Trafficking

• In Event: Community-Engaged Research and the Trafficking in Persons Research Lab at the University of South Florida

Abstract

Prior research states that adolescent trafficking survivors need ample services and programs to aid in their recovery after sexual exploitation. Following the trauma, parents and families play a vital role in facilitating the survivor’s psychological and emotional adjustment when returning to home. Therefore, successful family reunification is a critical step for children exiting exploitive environments and can prevent repeat exploitation in sex trafficking. The current study conducts an evaluation and field testing of an innovative program, Journey Homeward, that facilitates and supports family reunification for girls who have been exploited in sex trafficking in Florida. Pre and post testing using the Parent Trauma Response Questionnaire (PTRQ) were conducted to examine parental appraisals and support for their adolescent’s coping due to their trauma.
Suggestions are made for practitioners to enhance the provision of comprehensive services for child sex trafficking survivors.

Authors

• Colby Valentine, University of South Florida

• Klejdis Bilali, University of Central Florida

• Joan Reid, University of South Florida