Journal of Evidence-Informed Social Work
Volume 15, Issue 2, 2018, Pages 102-121

Seventeen years of human trafficking research in social work: A review of the literature (Article)

Okech D.* , Choi Y.J. , Elkins J. , Burns A.C.
  • a School of Social Work, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
  • b School of Social Work, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
  • c School of Social Work, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
  • d School of Social Work, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States

Abstract

The trafficking of persons around the world is a serious violation of human rights and manifestation of social injustice. It disproportionately affects women and children worldwide. Given the values of the social work profession and the prevalence of trafficking, it is essential to understand the current literature on human trafficking in social work journals. Using the PRISMA method, this systematic review (n = 94 articles) of human trafficking in social work journals found the following: more focus on sex trafficking than other forms of trafficking; a lack of a clear conceptualization and definition on the entire spectrum of trafficking; a lack of evidence-informed empirical research to inform programs, practice, and policy; and a dearth of recommendations for social work education. Specific implications for social work policy, research, practice, and education are highlighted and discussed. © 2017 Taylor & Francis.

Author Keywords

TVPA Systematic review Social justice Human trafficking Social work

Index Keywords

slavery social justice human policy international cooperation Social Work sex trafficking human rights social work education United States Humans empirical research prostitution prevention and control human trafficking organization and management age sex factor Sex Factors Age Factors government regulation Sex Work research systematic review
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85038632406&doi=10.1080%2f23761407.2017.1415177&partnerID=40&md5=5b09b8fb278f0c63e5b668f3d0af8e69
DOI: 10.1080/23761407.2017.1415177
ISSN: 23761407
Cited by: 3
Original Language: English