An Examination of Social Work Interventions for Female Survivors of Sexual Abuse: Example of Türkiye

Abstract

This study explores the life experiences of young women in northwest Türkiye, who were subjected to childhood sexual abuse. It considers the social services provided during their time in institutional care and their subsequent life experiences. The research adopts a holistic approach, encompassing the young women’s childhood experiences, the disclosure of abuse, the care received from statuary services, and the post-care challenges based on their narratives. The key research questions are: "How do institutional social work interventions affect the long-term recovery of young women who experienced childhood sexual abuse?" and "How effective is institutional care in preparing these women for life thereafter?" Employing a qualitative research methodology, semi-structured interviews were carried out with 12 women to retrospectively analyze their life experiences through the life history method. Furthermore, focus group discussions were conducted with social workers and representatives from non-governmental organizations. The findings emphasize that although institutional care caters to the immediate needs of children, it inadequately supports their development into well-adjusted adults capable of informed decision-making across different life contexts. Consequently, this deficiency leads to new and persisting challenges in family relationships, housing, partner choice, marriage, and motherhood, exacerbating the trauma resulting from sexual abuse. Results suggest a need to restructure social services in the field of child protection system in Türkiye to better address the long-term effects of trauma of child sexual abuse. Further research should assess the interventions for families of these children’s in care, to identify and meet specific needs, thereby enhancing intervention strategies.