Trauma, Violence, and Abuse
Volume 20, Issue 2, 2019, Pages 183-196

Helping Survivors of Human Trafficking: A Systematic Review of Exit and Postexit Interventions (Review)

Dell N.A.* , Maynard B.R. , Born K.R. , Wagner E. , Atkins B. , House W.
  • a School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
  • b School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
  • c School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
  • d School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
  • e School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
  • f School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States

Abstract

Background: Human trafficking is a global problem and results in deleterious psychological, social, and physical effects on the lives of those who are trafficked; however, it is not clear how to best intervene with survivors. The purpose of this review was to synthesize the evidence of exit and postexit intervention programs for survivors of human trafficking to inform practice and research. Method: Systematic review methods were used to search, select, and extract data from published and unpublished experimental, quasi-experimental, and preexperimental studies that assessed the effects of any exit or postexit interventions for victims of human trafficking. The authors searched eight databases, reviewed bibliographies, and conducted forward citation searches from relevant reports and prior reviews to find studies authored between 2005 and 2015. Results: The search yielded six eligible studies that included 155 female and 6 male survivors from four countries. Interventions were diverse, with three using a trauma-informed approach. Authors measured a myriad of outcomes, including mental health, social network, community reintegration, and employment; however, the quality of most studies was poor. Discussion: Evidence of effects of exit and postexit interventions is sparse, and much of the research is poorly designed and executed; however, the needs of trafficking survivors are complex and effective interventions are desperately needed. Implications for practice and research are discussed. © The Author(s) 2017.

Author Keywords

Human trafficking sex trafficking Systematic review

Index Keywords

Survivors male female methodology standards Research Design human trafficking human Humans survivor psychology controlled clinical trial (topic) Non-Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85048212370&doi=10.1177%2f1524838017692553&partnerID=40&md5=ba31466869f2e81cf45c2c949e281ebd
DOI: 10.1177/1524838017692553
ISSN: 15248380
Cited by: 6
Original Language: English