Human Trafficking: Exploration of Best Practices for Restoration and Integration for Survivors in the Southeastern United States

Domestic Human Trafficking, especially of minors, has become a serious though largely invisible issue in the United States. There are, however, organizations and policies in place that have become active in caring for, restoring and reintegrating those survivors who have been able to escape. Through the perspectives of service providers, this explorative qualitative study examines the factors of vulnerability of victims, the factors that support reintegration for survivors and the best practices as well as indicators of success when caring for survivors. This was accomplished through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with representatives from various social service agencies that are involved with human trafficking. This research fills the gap in literature by adding to the service providers’ perceptions of best practice for aftercare of survivors of Human Trafficking. As the study progressed three main themes emerged: Factors of Exploitation, Barriers to Services and Empowerment through Aftercare Environment and Best Practice. Young women who have fled from emotionally and physically harmful situations in their family homes are very vulnerable to traffickers who seemed to offer security. It was often noted that many victims had begun in or believed themselves to be in a ‘relationship’ with the man who was effectively their trafficker. Most survivors are trapped by personal barriers due to the impact of exploitation and the lack of awareness and resources to meet the need. An environment that promoted empowerment and restoration through therapy and continued enforcement of policies that facilitate care and protection for survivors are most prominently recommended. As this study only interviewed a few social service agencies it is not a comprehensive examination of best practice, however, it does provide valuable insight into the issues surrounding survivors of Human Trafficking and potential best practices for their aftercare and integration