Date of Award
Spring 5-9-2026
Document Type
Honors Thesis
Department/Major
Health Science
First Advisor
Bridget Diamond-Welch
Second Advisor
Anna Kosloski
Third Advisor
Amber Evenson
Keywords
Sex traffiking, Native American, mental health, healing and recovery
Subject Categories
Mental and Social Health
Abstract
The mental health impacts of sex trafficking on Native American survivors and pathways to resilience are important to understanding healing. Native Americans are disproportionately affected by sex trafficking due to systemic inequities, historical trauma, and socioeconomic vulnerability. Using interviews with 47 Native survivors conducted as part of a larger Office on Violence Against Women project, this study analyzes the mental health challenges and recovery strategies identified by participants. Findings reveal that survivors commonly experience significant psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Among participants, PTSD emerged as the most frequently reported condition, followed by depression and anxiety, highlighting the long-term psychological consequences of trafficking. Despite these challenges, survivors demonstrated resilience through a range of healing strategies. These strategies were categorized into three primary themes: spiritual, creative, and therapeutic. Spiritual practices such as ceremonies and prayer were frequently cited as meaningful sources of healing, while creative outlets like music and journaling provided emotional expression. Therapeutic approaches, including counseling and mental health treatment, were the most utilized resources. This study underscores the importance of culturally responsive and trauma-informed care in supporting Native American survivors. By centering survivor voices, this research highlights the need for integrated approaches that combine clinical support with culturally grounded healing practices to promote long-term recovery and well-being.
Recommended Citation
Stoebner, Katelin A., "From Exploitation to Healing: Mental Health and Resilience Among Native American Survivors of Sex Trafficking" (2026). Honors Thesis. 418.
https://red.library.usd.edu/honors-thesis/418