Date of Paper

5-2016

Type of Paper

Clinical research paper

Degree Name

Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)

Department

Social Work

First Advisor

Rajean Moone

Department/School

Social Work

Abstract

Prostitution, sex-trafficking, and commercial sexual exploitation are terms used to describe a thriving, international black market economy. A substantial portion of research conducted on prostitution has treated women who've experienced sexual exploitation as a homogeneous group, but also demonstrates the diverse experiences of victimization this population may endure as a result of factors including ethnicity. In consideration of this, the present research study conducted interviews to explore the components of a culturally based holistic intervention for Native American women who have experienced commercial exploitation. The author of this study analyzed data from four, semi-structured qualitative interviews with Native American professionals who possess experience working with this population. Six themes emerged from the data including: a) spirituality cannot be separated from the therapeutic inventions, b) ceremony as a diverse, integral component of healing, c) role of community and healing, d) person - centered intervention planning, e) and the lack of recognition of traditional healing practices. These findings are consistent with prior research, but also provide valuable information useful for building our current understanding of how to effectively support and facilitate healing from traumatic experiences for this population. Implications from the study for social work practice, policy, education, research are also discussed.

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