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A Systematic Review of Methods in Qualitative Studies in Human Trafficking Research
Objective: The purpose of this review is to compare the methods described in qualitative studies of human trafficking with standards for qualitative research i.e., relevance, validity, and reflexivity.
Data Sources: A systematic review of peer-reviewed primary English language publications among human trafficking victims and service providers using the following databases: Medline, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Sociological Abstracts.
Study Selection: Peer-reviewed qualitative primary English language publications among human trafficking victims and service providers were selected.
Data Extraction: Extraction utilized a standardized coding form.
Results: Details from 8 primary qualitative studies published between 2008 and 2012 were analyzed. The 8 studies totaled n=362 trafficking victims and services provider (Victims: n=350; Service Providers: n=12). Of the 8 studies, 2 were based in Grounded Theory, 1 in a Gender-based violence framework, 1 in a life course framework, and 1 in anomie theory. Three of the studies did not articulate a theoretical background a priori. 4 studies used in-depth interviews to collect data, 3 studies used semi-structured interviews to collect data, and 1 used a structured interview to collect data.
Conclusion: There are diverse research methods across primary qualitative studies. Authors of primary studies of qualitative research among human trafficking victims should discuss their results vis-à-vis accepted research standards in the qualitative research methods.
Learning Areas:
Conduct evaluation related to programs, research, and other areas of practiceOther professions or practice related to public health
Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs
Public health or related research
Social and behavioral sciences
Learning Objectives:
Identify four qualitative research methods standards i.e., relevance, validity, and reflexivity.
Compare the methods described in qualitative studies of human trafficking with standards for qualitative research.
Formulate an action plan to improve the collection of data among human trafficking victims.
Keyword(s): Special Populations, Methodology
Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am a doctoral candidate at the University Of Texas Health Science Center School Of Public Health. I hold a Master’s degree in public health with a specialization in behavioral sciences. I have worked with a NGO in Nepal on a human trafficking and have experience doing mixed-methods research.
Any relevant financial relationships? No
I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.