Qualitative Report
Volume 23, Issue 6, 2018, Pages 1422-1440

Experiences of female sex trafficking survivors: A phenomenological analysis (Article)

Sukach T.* , Castañeda N.G. , Pickens J.C.
  • a Department of Community, Family, and Addiction Science, Texas Tech University, 2500 Broadway Avenue, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
  • b Department of Community, Family, and Addiction Science, Texas Tech University, 2500 Broadway Avenue, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
  • c Department of Community, Family, and Addiction Science, Texas Tech University, 2500 Broadway Avenue, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States

Abstract

Human sex trafficking is a worldwide issue that affects millions of people. Victims of this industry undergo numerous traumatic events, which greatly impact their lives. Given the prevalence and traumatic nature of the sex trafficking industry, there is a need to raise greater awareness of victims’ experiences. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of 15 female survivors of sex trafficking, who shared their stories on equalitynow.org. Using phenomenology, the researchers answered the following questions: “What are the experiences of female survivors of sexual human trafficking within the industry?” and “How do survivors make sense of those experiences?” The analysis resulted in 6 themes and 10 subthemes that describe the lived experiences of female survivors of sex trafficking. Clinical implications and future research recommendations are discussed. © 2018: Tetiana Sukach, Natali Gonzalez Castaeda, Jaclyn Cravens Pickens, and Nova Southeastern University.

Author Keywords

sex trafficking Phenomenology violence Victimization trauma

Index Keywords

[No Keywords available]
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85048805817&partnerID=40&md5=7f2900aa58562735152efd113beed56d
ISSN: 10520147
Cited by: 2
Original Language: English