Addressing the Impact of Trafficking on Shame and Identity Formation
Heather Evans, DSW, LCSW & Alycha Boehm, DSW, LCSW | September 17 | 3:15-4:15 pm EDT
Topic: Research | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
Integrating data from two qualitative studies, this presentation will explore the often unidentified and unaddressed impact of shame on sex trafficking survivors. The first study focused on the impact and experiences of sex trafficking survivors through the lens of complex trauma and posttraumatic growth. Participants completed open-ended interviews, took photos, and participated in online focus groups to explore identity, sexuality, relationships, and factors of community reintegration including what survivors described as helpful in their aftercare and healing process. Data analysis included multi-level conceptual and thematic coding. Data revealed how experiences before, during, and after being trafficked perpetuated shame, which in turn, impacted the shaping of their identity. The second study was a recent mixed-methods study that explored the potential impact of trauma related shame on survivors of child sex trafficking and identified the influence shame has on the pathology of complex post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, the study aimed to provide insight to best practices in supporting survivors as they receive interventions, especially in their mental health recovery. This research also explores how survivors of child trafficking define shame and complex trauma from their own lived experience. The findings from both of these studies will be interwoven and presented to participants in such a way that they will leave with a greater understanding of survivors’ expression of how they define and experience shame, how it shows up in their identity formation, and contributors of healing to inform how we approach interaction and services with survivors.
Presentation Objectives:
• Discuss the impact and presentation of shame in sex trafficking survivors
• Discuss the impact of sex trafficking on identity formation
• Present key factors important for healing from shame, as expressed by survivors of sex trafficking
• Explore ways service providers can contribute to identity formation in relating with trafficking survivors