Perceptions of Trauma-Informed Care in Health Settings and the Impact on Survivors of Minor Sex Trafficking

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

Abstract

Young people who experience sex trafficking often endure frequent traumatic experiences during their exploitation, and other traumatic life events often precede their exploitation. While access to and utilization of healthcare services is critical for survivors of sex trafficking both during and after their exploitation to address physical and psychological health needs, engagement with healthcare systems and with individual healthcare providers can be difficult. Using qualitative data from 30 in-depth semi-structured interviews with people who experienced sex trafficking as youth, this study explores experiences with healthcare professionals and their alignment with Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) trauma-informed principles. We analyze participants’ positive, negative, and neutral experiences in alignment with these principles of a trauma-informed approach: safety; trustworthiness and transparency; peer support; collaboration and mutuality; empowerment and choice; and cultural, historical, and gender issues. We conclude with implications for healthcare professionals, anti-trafficking providers, and people who have experienced sex trafficking.

Authors

• Rebecca Pfeffer, RTI International

• Jaclyn Kolnik, RTI International

• Shani Bacy, RTI International

• Carlos Cuevas, Northeastern University

• Emily Rothman, Boston University