RESUMEN
Most family violence research has been conducted in high-income countries, although family violence rates are higher in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and outcomes more severe. Given the strong associations of family violence with substance use and mental illness, the aim of this systematic review was to examine interventions that targeted familial violence and at least one other condition of substance use or mental illness to determine effective treatments in LMICs. We conducted a systematic review of interventions that addressed family violence and mental illness or substance use. A committee of three researchers independently screened titles and abstracts and conducted full-text eligibility assessments. Two researchers conducted a risk of bias assessment. Data were extracted using a structured spreadsheet and narratively synthesized. Our search identified 29 articles produced from 19 studies conducted in 13 LMICs. Most (n = 15) studies randomized to study condition. Lack of blinding was the most common threat. The external validity of studies was generally poor. Fourteen studies had a primary intervention target of family violence, mental health, substance use, economic improvement, or HIV. None of the studies showed improvements in all intervention areas. Child maltreatment was less likely to be addressed than intimate partner violence (IPV). Targeted interventions for substance and mental health mostly improved primary outcomes, although they were less effective in reducing IPV. Evidence-based treatments must be rigorously evaluated before innovations in implementation can occur. Interventions overwhelmingly addressed IPV victimization and should consider how to work with couples and include men and children.
RESUMEN
More research is needed on the mental health sequelae of sex trafficking in the U.S. to build a more effective response to the mental health needs of survivors. This commentary provides recommendations on how to conduct research that shares power and builds trust, amplifying the voices of survivors.
Asunto(s)
Trata de Personas , Humanos , Salud Mental , Sobrevivientes , ConfianzaRESUMEN
Objective: It is increasingly acknowledged by academics, practitioners, and policymakers that sex trafficking can lead to various mental health sequelae, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, and have lasting effects on the survivors' health and well-being. What has been lacking in this dialogue, however, are the firsthand stories of survivors. This qualitative, exploratory study was designed to capture the depth and complexity of survivors' lived experiences of mental health, pathways of recovery, and social reintegration posttrafficking. Method: Six female sex trafficking survivors were recruited for this study in partnership with two legal agencies in New York City. In-depth semistructured individual interviews were conducted with each survivor, and an interpretative phenomenological analysis method was used to analyze and interpret interview transcripts. Results: Participants shared about the chronic betrayal and violence in their trafficking experiences, struggles living with the effects of trafficking on their mental health, how they cope, and their recommendations for supporting other sex trafficking survivors. Practitioners are urged to build trust, address safety and shame, foster agency, avoid judgment, and develop unique knowledge and skills important for this population. Conclusion: These findings attempt to address a crucial gap in the field by amplifying survivor voices, providing valuable insights for practitioners working with this population, and paving the way for further research. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).