Date of Award
5-2023
Document Type
Project
Degree Name
Master of Social Work
Department
School of Social Work
First Reader/Committee Chair
McAllister,Carolyn
Abstract
This study seeks to understand the mental health implications for adolescent victims of human traffic. This will be explored on both a micro and macro-level through the perspective of mental health professionals who have experience working with this unique population. It is important to better understand the multi-faceted impact of service delivery and barriers which victims of human trafficking often face. Equally important is how services and resources can be tailored to meet the needs of this population. This exploratory study utilized qualitative methods for data collection. Data was collected by facilitating interviews and a focus group with mental health professionals. Results from this study had major implications for the field of social work and identified important themes such as unmet needs, mental health and gender identity implications, and barriers to help-seeking. Results from this study also informed social work policy and advocacy as social workers will be better informed and equipped to meet the needs of adolescent victims of human trafficking which includes best practices for treatment interventions. The study concludes that the effects of human trafficking on mental health are complex and multifaceted, with micro and macro-level implications. Addressing the mental health needs of human trafficking victims requires a multi-level and multi-disciplinary approach, as well as addressing the root causes of trafficking and promoting social justice.
Recommended Citation
Pereyra, Abbigail, "UNDERSTANDING VICTIMS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING: IDENTIFYING MACRO AND MICRO-LEVEL MENTAL HEALTH IMPLICATIONS" (2023). Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations. 1676.
https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd/1676