Dynamic Recruitment Strategies: Agency Partnerships and Social Media Outreach for Studying Minors Affected by Sex Trafficking

• In Event: Innovative Approaches to Engaging Hard-to-Reach Populations: Insights from Minor Sex Trafficking Research

Abstract

Innovative and dynamic recruitment methods are often necessary for hard-to-reach populations to effectively engage and include them in research. To study the experiences of minors who experience sex trafficking, it is more critical to utilize methodologies that meet young people where they are. To better understand the health concerns and health care access experience of young people who experience sex trafficking, this study captures information from 500 young people ages 13-24 who have experienced, or are considered at high risk of, commercial sexual exploitation. Two novel recruitment strategies are presented in this study, including 1) partnership with community and service provider agencies who invited young people to participate in the survey and 2) recruitment of young people utilizing Facebook and Instagram. This analysis explores the similarities and differences between the two recruitment populations and their related health care needs and experiences. Findings suggest the value of information from both recruitment mechanisms and support the continued exploration of new mechanisms to reach hard-to-recruit populations to better understand their experiences.

Authors

• Amelia Wagner, Northeastern University

• Sarah Lockwood, University of South Florida

• Amy Farrell, Northeastern University

• Carlos Cuevas, Northeastern University

• Thy Ho, Northeastern University