Prevention of revictimization after sexual exploitation: Results from a feasibility study of a behavioural training

Abstract

Background: Victims of sexual exploitation often have experienced several forms of (childhood) sexual abuse prior to the exploitation. In the general population there is strong scientific evidence indicating that being a victim to sexual violence puts one atrisk for future sexual victimization. People who have been victimized by sexual exploitation are referred our mental healthcare outpatient clinic for traumafocussed therapy. Additionally, we developed a 10- session module addressing this cycle of sexual revictimization in an attempt to work towards prevention of future revictimization. Objective: Raising awareness on dynamics of sexual violence among victims of sexual exploitation. Tailoring treatment to the broader needs of traumatized victims of sexual exploitation. Method: A feasibility and acceptability study will be carried out in 2019 among 12 female victims of sexual exploitation. Outcome measures will be increased knowledge, self-efficacy, interpersonal functioning, emotion regulation, mood and posttraumatic stress symptoms. Additionally, interviews will be carried out among therapists and patients to evaluate the module. Results and Discussion: Preliminary findings on the feasibility study will be presented, as well as an overview of the content of the behavioural training and implications for clinical practice.