Putting the Pieces Back Together: A Group Intervention for Sexually Exploited Adolescent Girls

Authors: Hickle, Kristine & Roe-Sepowitz, Dominique

Abstract: Domestic minor sex trafficking (DMST) is an emerging problem affecting adolescents, families, and communities throughout the United States. Despite a growing awareness of the problem, information regarding treatment is limited. This article describes a pilot group intervention created for use with DMST victims, focusing specifically on areas that were critical to the development and life of the group: (1) providing education about DMST, (2) reducing shame and addressing stigma, (3) mutual aid, and (4) managing strong emotions through the development of new coping skills. Process examples are given to illustrate this pilot intervention, and recommendations for research and practice are discussed.

Keywords: CSEC, DMST, group work, juvenile prostitution, sex trafficking, sex work, trauma