Effectiveness of TF ‐CBT with sex trafficking victims in a secure post‐adjudication facility

This study evaluated the course and degree of treatment effect for trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) for decreasing symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among adjudicated girls who are victims of domestic minor sex trafficking (DMST). We also aimed to understand the perceptions of the treatment while recovering from trauma symptoms and the lived experience of DMST victims engaging in TF-CBT while living in the post-adjudication facility. Participants were three adolescents who self-identified as Hispanic. Results of a mixed-method research design with multiple baselines indicated TF-CBT was efficacious with two out of three of the girls in reducing PTSD symptoms. Qualitative data yielded five themes depicting the concurrent phases of treatment experience: protest, suppression, brokenness, stability, and breakthrough. All three girls gave voice to their experience participating in treatment and their experience engaging in treatment while living in a secure post-adjudication juvenile facility. Implications for use of TF-CBT with victims of DMST are provided.
Source: Journal of Counseling and Development - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: RESEARCH ARTICLE Source Type: research