Support For Survivors Research Articles

Injuries and /or trauma due to sexual gender-based violence among survivors in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic scoping review of research evidence

BackgroundSexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) is a prevalent issue in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), causing injuries and trauma with severe consequences for survivors. This scoping review aimed to explore the range of research evidence on injuries and trauma resulting from SGBV among survivors in SSA and identify research gaps.MethodsThe review employed the Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework, conducting extensive literature searches across multiple electronic databases using keywords, Boolean operators, medical subject heading terms and manual searches of reference lists. It included studies focusing on injuries and trauma from SGBV, regardless of gender or age, published between 2012 and 2023, and involved an SSA countries. Two authors independently screened articles, performed data extraction and quality appraisal, with discrepancies resolved through discussions or a third author. Descriptive analysis and narrative synthesis were used to report the findings.ResultsAfter screening 569 potentially eligible articles, 20 studies were included for data extraction and analysis. Of the 20 included studies, most were cross-sectional studies (n = 15; 75%) from South Africa (n = 11; 55%), and involved women (n = 15; 75%). The included studies reported significant burden of injuries and trauma resulting from SGBV, affecting various populations, including sexually abused children, married women, visually impaired women, refugees, and female students. Factors associated with injuries and trauma included the duration of abuse, severity of injuries sustained, marital status, family dynamics, and timing of incidents. SGBV had a significant impact on mental health, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, and psychological trauma. Survivors faced challenges in accessing healthcare and support services, particularly in rural areas, with traditional healers sometimes providing the only mental health care available. Disparities were observed between urban and rural areas in the prevalence and patterns of SGBV, with rural women experiencing more repeated sexual assaults and non-genital injuries.ConclusionThis scoping review highlights the need for targeted interventions to address SGBV and its consequences, improve access to healthcare and support services, and enhance mental health support for survivors. Further research is required to fill existing gaps and develop evidence-based strategies to mitigate the impact of SGBV on survivors in SSA.

Relationship between a history of child abuse and feelings of entrapment in Lebanese adults: the co-moderating effect of social support and religiosity

BackgroundThis study aims to investigate the moderating influence of social support and religiosity in the association between child abuse and entrapment during adulthood. This cross-sectional study recruited 352 Lebanese adults between November 2022 and January 2023. The survey included several sociodemographic items and validated instruments like the Child Abuse Self Report Scale, the Entrapment Scale Short Form, the Centrality of Religiosity Scale, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support.ResultsThe moderation analysis indicates that there is a positive relationship between physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect with entrapment, and the intensity of this correlation may vary depending on various levels of social support and religiosity. Religiosity and social support may help mitigate the intensity of entrapment experienced, making it less severe when support or religiosity is high but not enough to lead to a negative relationship between child abuse and entrapment.ConclusionThis study is crucial as it recognizes the long-lasting impact of child abuse and its potential relationship with feelings of entrapment in adulthood, especially that it stresses long-term follow-up and support for survivors with regular assessments of coping strategies to help individuals navigate challenges and promote continued healing.

Abstract PO5-12-01: Characteristics of Patients Served by Participants in a Survivorship Navigator Learning Collaborative

Abstract Patient navigation is demonstrated to be a successful model for improving breast cancer screening and early detection, particularly for women in under-resourced communities. The effectiveness of this model has not yet been explored in cancer survivorship. Our research assesses the feasibility of community-based patient navigation after a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis focuses on the role of patient navigators in providing community-based peer support for women living with breast cancer. We conducted an analysis of data from the Breast Cancer Survivorship Patient Navigator Virtual Learning Collaborative (VLC), a case-based, iterative, virtual training program designed to increase capacity of community-based patient navigators to support women diagnosed with breast cancer. Navigators participated in a 14-week practice-based curriculum focused on improving community support for breast cancer survivors. Each session included a brief lecture followed by a case presentation by a participant. Lecture topics include Breast Cancer 101, Psychosocial support, Treatment options, Clinical trials, Sexual Health, Palliative Care, Genetic Testing, and Trauma. All participants were asked to present at least one de-identified case for discussion, using an 55-item case presentation template. The template included data on patient demographics, diagnosis, treatment, and support. To encourage active learning, navigators were encouraged to present challenging cases for discussion focused on identifying solutions and providing peer support. This analysis focuses on the characteristics of patients presented by community navigators from January 2021 to May 2023. A total of 92 de-identified patient cases were presented by 71 patient navigators and community health workers. (Table 1) The majority of patients were diagnosed within 12 months (62%), with early stage (Stages I-III) disease (78%), and were in active treatment or had not yet started treatment (67%). More than half of the cases had tumors that were HR+ (54%) and nearly half were HER2- (43%); 9% of cases were triple negative and 9% were triple positive. Tumor characteristics were not reported for 27% of cases. Individuals diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) compared with those diagnosed with early stage disease were more likely to be Black (59% v 39%), single (56% v 31%), not currently employed (100% v 46%), younger (average age 52 v 55 years old) and insured through Medicaid (56% v 17%) Individuals living with MBC relied more heavily on professional support compared to those diagnosed with early stage disease. The majority of MBC patients relied on the clinical care team (67%) and friends and family (67%) for support, with a large number also receiving support from faith-based organizations (56%), compared to those with early stage disease who relied on friends and family (90%) and the clinical care team (54%). Both groups relied on navigators (33% v 35%) and social workers (44% v 34%), while those with MBC relied more frequently on paid caregivers (44% v 3%), disability services (22% v 6%). The data indicates that individuals with MBC had more unmet needs, including practical support (55% v 33%) and disability (55% v 14%). Supportive care needs vary considerably based on stage of diagnosis, while community-based supportive services are often designed to meet the needs of those diagnosed with early stage disease. Community-based survivorship navigators more readily engage with patients with early stage disease who are newly diagnosed or in active treatment. Individuals with MBC have fewer community-based resources and are less likely to connect with a community-based navigator. Data from our Breast Cancer Survivorship Patient Navigator VLC points to the potential to identify gaps in community-based survivorship care. Future research should focus on expanding the reach of community navigators and ensuring community-based support for patients across all stages. Table 1 Demographics of Patients Presented at VLC Citation Format: Tamara Hamlish, Talia Holzman Castetllands. Characteristics of Patients Served by Participants in a Survivorship Navigator Learning Collaborative [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO5-12-01.

Six aspects of female genital mutilation education (SAFE) model: findings from a qualitative study

ObjectivesRecent figures show that over 200 million women and girls, globally, live with the consequences of female genital mutilation (FGM). Complex debilitating physical, psychological and social problems result from the...

Supportive and non-supportive social experiences following suicide loss: a qualitative study

BackgroundSuicide bereavement entails profound social stressors, including stigma and communication barriers, which can impair social support for suicide loss survivors (SLS). Despite recognized benefits of empathetic interactions, social support, and self-disclosure in mitigating adverse mental health outcomes after suicide loss, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing perceived social support among SLS within their broader social environments. To address this gap, our study explores the diverse social experiences of SLS beyond their immediate circles. Specifically, we identify characteristics that define both supportive and non-supportive social experiences of SLS, as well as the facilitators and barriers to social support in the context of suicide bereavement.MethodsIn 2022, we conducted structured online individual interviews with a diverse sample of 18 SLS in Germany. We analyzed these interviews using qualitative content analysis.ResultsWe examined the social experiences of SLS across three phases and social contexts: (1) the immediate aftermath of the loss; (2) during bereavement practices; and (3) over time. Our findings show that proactive responses and personalized mourning rituals significantly enhance SLS’ sense of community support, while encounters characterized by avoidance or intrusive curiosity lead to feelings of isolation. Over time, supportive interactions often emerge from peers with similar experiences, promoting openness and shared vulnerability. Conversely, superficial engagement, along with experiences of others depersonalizing and avoiding conversations about the loss, contribute to a sense of marginalization.ConclusionsOur findings highlight the importance of proactive engagement and open dialogue, calling for societal and communicative shifts toward inclusive and compassionate approaches in addressing suicide loss. This study underscores the need for comprehensive strategies that enhance both suicide and grief literacy and address the taboo and stigma surrounding suicide, ultimately fostering supportive social environments for SLS.

Perceived work self-efficacy, and characteristics of return to work in women survivors of breast cancer at two reference centers in Colombia

Return to work and permanence in employment of women who survive breast cancer are topics that become important as incidence and survival rates increase. Self-efficacy as a modifiable element is of special interest in this process. The objective of this study is to measure the level of self-efficacy in female breast cancer survivors, according to sociodemographic, work and treatment characteristics and their relationship with return to work. This was a cross-sectional study, based on a survey of breast cancer patients about their demographic and work characteristics, the return to work process, permanence in the same job and the level of work self-efficacy. Differences in the level of self-efficacy with respect to characteristics were evaluated using bivariate analyses and hypothesis statistical testing. A value of p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. One hundred and twenty-four women were included, 87.9% had returned to work, the majority (56.4%) between one and six months after treatment, 67.7% remained in the same job. Higher levels of work self-efficacy were related to a higher probability of returning to work and staying there, and a shorter time to return to work; these differences were statistically significant. Occupational health and risk prevention services must consider and strengthen work self-efficacy and organizational support in breast cancer survivors to achieve a successful return to work.

Burden of Childhood Cancer and the Social and Economic Challenges in Adulthood

Significant advancements in pediatric oncology have led to a continuously growing population of survivors. Although extensive research is being conducted on the short-, medium-, and long-term somatic effects, reports on psychosocial reintegration are often conflicting; therefore, there is an urgent need to synthesize the evidence to obtain the clearest understanding and the most comprehensive answer. To provide a comprehensive review and analysis of the socioeconomic attainment of childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) compared with their unaffected peers. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted using data obtained from a comprehensive search of MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, and CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) databases on October 23, 2021; the search was updated until July 31, 2023. Eligible articles reported on educational attainment, employment, family formation, quality of life (QoL), or health-risk behavior-related outcomes of CCSs, and compared them with their unaffected peers. Study selection was performed in duplicate by 4 blinded independent coauthors. Data extraction was performed in duplicate by 4 independent authors following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Outcome measures were odds ratios (ORs) and mean differences with 95% CIs; data were pooled using a random-effects model. The search identified 43 913 articles, 280 of which were eligible for analysis, reporting data on a total of 389 502 survivors. CCSs were less likely to complete higher levels of education (OR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.40-1.18), had higher odds of health-related unemployment (OR, 2.94; 95% CI, 1.90-4.57), and showed lower rates of marriage (OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.63-0.84) and parenthood (OR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.49-0.74) compared with population-based controls. Study findings suggest that CCSs face several socioeconomic difficulties; as a result, the next goal of pediatric oncology should be to minimize adverse effects, as well as to provide lifelong survivorship support aimed at maximizing social reintegration.

Prevalence of survivors of childhood cancer based on a population-based cancer registry in Osaka, Japan.

Although the survival rate of patients with childhood cancer has greatly improved, long-term survivors face specific problems such as the late effects of cancer treatment. In this study, we estimated the number of people who had experienced childhood cancer to predict their needs for medical care and social resources. Using data from the population-based Osaka Cancer Registry, we identified children aged 0-14 years who were diagnosed with cancer between 1975 and 2019. We estimated the prevalence on December 31, 2019, and the 5- and 10-year prevalence (i.e., the number of survivors living up to 5 or 10 years after the diagnosis of cancer) over time. The prevalence proportion was age-standardized using a direct standardization method. The prevalence estimates for Osaka were applied to the national population to determine the national prevalence in Japan. Among 8186 patients diagnosed with childhood cancer in Osaka, 5252 (987 per million) survived until December 31, 2019. The 5-year prevalence per million increased from 194 in 1979 to 417 in 2019 (+116%), while the 10-year prevalence increased from 391 in 1984 to 715 in 2019 (+83%). Based on the long-term registry data, an estimated 73,182 childhood cancer survivors were living in Japan by the end of 2019. The increasing 5-year and 10-year prevalence proportions indicate the continued need for cancer survivorship support for children, adolescents, and young adults. These estimates of the prevalence of childhood cancer survivors, including long-term survivors, may be useful for policymakers and clinicians to plan and evaluate survivorship care.

Benefits and Process of Providing Peer Support for Pediatric Burn Survivors and Caregivers during Inpatient and Outpatient Phases of Recovery.

The World Health Organization reveals that pediatric burns represent a large portion of burns globally (61). Increases in survival rates have guided clinical and research focus on physical, psychological, and social outcomes. Research on other childhood illnesses has shown the efficacy of social support throughout recovery. In the pediatric burn literature, studies have shown the efficacy of burn camps for promoting positive interactions among survivors, learning coping skills, and facilitating socialization and reintegration. However, few studies have focused on the benefits of peer support for pediatric burn survivors and their caregivers in the inpatient and outpatient phases of recovery. This descriptive paper identifies options for building resilience for pediatric burn survivors through peer support in the inpatient and outpatient phases of recovery. The authors discuss options for providing peer support during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on the pediatric intensive care unit, general pediatric floor, and outpatient setting.

Paving the way for COVID survivors' psychosocial rehabilitation: Mining topics, sentiments, and their trajectories over time from Reddit.

Objective: This study examined major themes and sentiments and their trajectories and interactions over time using subcategories of Reddit data. The aim was to facilitate decision-making for psychosocial rehabilitation. Materials and Methods: We utilized natural language processing techniques, including topic modeling and sentiment analysis, on a dataset consisting of more than 38,000 topics, comments, and posts collected from a subreddit dedicated to the experiences of people who tested positive for COVID-19. In this longitudinal exploratory analysis, we studied the dynamics between the most dominant topics and subjects' emotional states over an 18-month period. Results: Our findings highlight the evolution of the textual and sentimental status of major topics discussed by COVID survivors over an extended period of time during the pandemic. We particularly studied pre- and post-vaccination eras as a turning point in the timeline of the pandemic. The results show that not only does the relevance of topics change over time, but the emotions attached to them also vary. Major social events, such as the administration of vaccines or enforcement of nationwide policies, are also reflected through the discussions and inquiries of social media users. In particular, the emotional state (i.e., sentiments and polarity of their feelings) of those who have experienced COVID personally. Discussion: Cumulative societal knowledge regarding the COVID-19 pandemic impacts the patterns with which people discuss their experiences, concerns, and opinions. The subjects' emotional state with respect to different topics was also impacted by extraneous factors and events, such as vaccination. Conclusion: By mining major topics, sentiments, and trajectories demonstrated in COVID-19 survivors' interactions on Reddit, this study contributes to the emerging body of scholarship on COVID-19 survivors' mental health outcomes, providing insights into the design of mental health support and rehabilitation services for COVID-19 survivors.

Enhanced supportive care.

Enhanced supportive care is a care model providing earlier access to multiprofessional, coordinated care for patients from the point of cancer diagnosis. As a proactive model of care, it stands as a contrast to providing access to a multidisciplinary team once a patient has hit a crisis point, or when their prognosis has become sufficiently poor that they are able to access traditional end-of-life services. Its arrival in the UK through palliative care teams working in cancer care has led to enhanced supportive care being synonymous with early palliative care. While enhanced supportive care has enabled early palliative care, as it has become more embedded in the UK, it has taken on a wider remit for patients living longer with cancer and the management of side effects. Enhanced supportive care services have also begun to provide care for cancer survivors. Enhanced supportive care services have a key role in modern cancer care in maintaining and improving patients' quality of life alongside cancer treatment and ensuring that patients' priorities and preferences for treatment are considered. Furthermore, enhanced supportive care has been shown to support the wider healthcare system by creating capacity within the NHS, reducing demand on hospital services and saving money. As enhanced supportive care services continue to grow and venture into the care and support of cancer survivors and those receiving potentially curative treatments, ongoing work is needed to determine how these services can be made available throughout the NHS and how a shared vision of the way enhanced supportive care operates can be realised.

Fatigue in healthcare workers with mild COVID-19 survivors in Indonesia.

Persistent symptoms after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19, known as post-COVID syndrome (PCS), presented an ongoing health burden among COVID-19 survivors, including health workers. The existence of fatigue in mild COVID-19 survivors has not been widely reported. The aim of this study was to present the symptoms of fatigue in healthcare workers who experienced mild COVID-19 and the factors associated with fatigue. A cross-sectional study was conducted at H. Adam Malik General Hospital in Medan, Indonesia, from September to December 2022, included doctors, nurses, ancillary workers, and medical support workers who experienced mild COVID-19. Fatigue was measured by a fatigue assessment scale (FAS). The assessed possible risk factors were gender, age, vaccination history, comorbid, presence of PCS, duration of PCS symptoms, and number of PCS symptoms. The Chi-squared or Fisher's exact tests were used to assess the association between the incidence of fatigue and risk factors. A total of 100 healthcare workers of mild COVID-19 survivors were included. Most of them were nurses (58%), women (81%), and aged 19-30 years old (36%). The majority had incomplete vaccination history (64%), experienced PCS (71%), no comorbidities (61%), and experienced <3 months of PCS symptoms (55%). Mild to moderate fatigue was found in 23% of healthcare workers and only 1% experienced severe fatigue. No significant association was found between gender, vaccination history, and comorbidities with the incidence of fatigue. However, a significant association was observed between age (p=0.021), the presence of PCS (p=0.041), and the number of PCS symptoms (p=0.047) with fatigue incidence. Furthermore, there were significant associations between symptoms of PCS (confusion (p=0.004), insomnia (p=0.001), myalgia (p=0.035), arthralgia (p=0.028), throat pain (p=0.042), headache (p=0.042), and chest pain (p=0.011)) with fatigue. These findings can contribute to providing the necessary support for mild COVID-19 survivors and persistent fatigue.

Short- and Long-Term Chest-CT Findings after Recovery from COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

While ground-glass opacity, consolidation, and fibrosis in the lungs are some of the hallmarks of acute SAR-CoV-2 infection, it remains unclear whether these pulmonary radiological findings would resolve after acute symptoms have subsided. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate chest computed tomography (CT) abnormalities stratified by COVID-19 disease severity and multiple timepoints post-infection. PubMed/MEDLINE was searched for relevant articles until 23 May 2023. Studies with COVID-19-recovered patients and follow-up chest CT at least 12 months post-infection were included. CT findings were evaluated at short-term (1-6 months) and long-term (12-24 months) follow-ups and by disease severity (severe and non-severe). A generalized linear mixed-effects model with random effects was used to estimate event rates for CT findings. A total of 2517 studies were identified, of which 43 met the inclusion (N = 8858 patients). Fibrotic-like changes had the highest event rate at short-term (0.44 [0.3-0.59]) and long-term (0.38 [0.23-0.56]) follow-ups. A meta-regression showed that over time the event rates decreased for any abnormality (β = -0.137, p = 0.002), ground-glass opacities (β = -0.169, p < 0.001), increased for honeycombing (β = 0.075, p = 0.03), and did not change for fibrotic-like changes, bronchiectasis, reticulation, and interlobular septal thickening (p > 0.05 for all). The severe subgroup had significantly higher rates of any abnormalities (p < 0.001), bronchiectasis (p = 0.02), fibrotic-like changes (p = 0.03), and reticulation (p < 0.001) at long-term follow-ups when compared to the non-severe subgroup. In conclusion, significant CT abnormalities remained up to 2 years post-COVID-19, especially in patients with severe disease. Long-lasting pulmonary abnormalities post-SARS-CoV-2 infection signal a future public health concern, necessitating extended monitoring, rehabilitation, survivor support, vaccination, and ongoing research for targeted therapies.

Evaluating online health information utilisation and its psychosocial implications among breast cancer survivors: Qualitative explorations.

This study investigated the online information-seeking behaviours of breast cancer patients at Jordan University Hospital, focusing on their dissatisfaction with available online health resources and its impact on their well-being and anxiety levels. Employing descriptive phenomenology and convenience sampling, we conducted five Skype-based focus groups with 4-6 breast cancer survivors each, from March to July 2020. Data analysis was performed using NVivo, following Braun and Clark's inductive thematic analysis framework. The thematic analysis revealed critical insights into survivors' interactions with online cancer resources, identifying key subthemes such as the quality of online information, cyberchondriasis, health literacy and search strategies, the distress caused by counterproductive searches, and the tendency to avoid internet searches. The study underscores the challenges breast cancer survivors face in accessing online health information, especially in Arabic. It highlights the need to improve the quality and accessibility of these resources. Enhancing the cultural relevance of online materials and educating patients on effective information evaluation are crucial. These measures can significantly boost health literacy, mitigate anxiety, and provide better support for breast cancer survivors.

Emotional distress, social support, and functional dependence predict readiness for hospital discharge in a prospective sample of cognitively intact cardiac arrest survivors

AimTo inform screening, referral and treatment initiatives, we tested the hypothesis that emotional distress, social support, functional dependence, and cognitive impairment within 72 hours prior to discharge predict readiness for discharge in awake and alert cardiac arrest (CA) survivors. MethodsThis was a secondary analysis of a prospective single-center cohort of CA survivors enrolled between 4/2021 and 9/2022. We quantified emotional distress using the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-5 and PROMIS Emotional Distress – Anxiety and Depression Short Forms 4a; perceived social support using the ENRICHD Social Support Inventory; functional dependence using the modified Rankin Scale; and cognitive impairment using the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status. Our primary outcome was readiness for discharge, measured using the Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale. We used multivariable linear regression to test the independent association of each survivorship factor and readiness for discharge. ResultsWe included 110 patients (64% male, 88% white, mean age 59 [standard deviation ± 13.1 years]). Emotional distress, functional dependence, and social support were independently associated with readiness for discharge (adjusted β’s [absolute value]: 0.25–0.30, all p < 0.05). ConclusionsHospital systems should consider implementing routine in-hospital screening for emotional distress, social support, and functional dependence for CA survivors who are awake, alert and approaching hospital discharge, and prioritize brief in hospital treatment or post-discharge referrals.

South African rape survivors’ expressions of shame, self-blame and internalized-stigma

Post-rape research and support often focuses on external stigma, yet many rape survivors experience appreciable shame, self-blame and internalized-stigma. Despite a growing literature describing the impact of these feelings on survivors' emotional wellbeing, there has been little research on this in South Africa, where an average of 40,000 rape cases are reported annually. To strengthen our understanding of female rape survivors' experiences and perceptions of shame, self-blame and internalized-stigma, we undertook qualitative research with 16 survivors in eThekwini, South Africa. They participated in 2–3 in-depth and life history interviews, that sought to enable them to express how they made meaning of post-rape internalized-stigma, shame and self-blame, and how these may have influenced their psychological reactions to rape. The paper describes the women's experiences and reactions to the rape and reflects on how their descriptions contribute to theoretical perspectives on shame, self-blame and internalized-stigma. The women expressed feelings of shame, self-blame, and internalized-stigma, describing these as distinct, yet inter-connected. These feelings were a reaction to views expressed by family, community members and service providers, their relationship to the perpetrator, the extent of gossip about the incident and gender norms and rape myths. Furthermore, while the stigma was felt at an individual level, it was driven by external stigma enacted at interpersonal and structural/community levels. Women who had experienced more than one rape, explained this through the internally-stigmatizing notion of being ‘rape-able’. This study addresses a significant knowledge gap which could improve contextually appropriate post-rape care services and interventions in South Africa, particularly psychological support for survivors. Finally, while rape survivors should be supported to address their own shame, self-blame and internalized-stigma, external stigma needs to be addressed at interpersonal and structural levels.

Pranks, Obscene Chatters, and Ambiguous Content: Exploring the Identification and Navigation of Inappropriate Messages to a Web-Based Sexual Assault Hotline

ABSTRACT Sexual assault crisis hotlines provide crucial support for survivors. Though some hotline users engage in inappropriate conduct (e.g. prank or obscene calls), few studies explore these interactions. To address the lack of literature exploring inappropriate hotline interactions, we conducted a secondary data analysis of chat transcripts (n = 233) shared with the research team as part of the formative evaluation of a university-based sexual assault program’s web-based crisis hotline. From those transcripts, we analyzed potentially inappropriate interactions (n = 38), most of which (n = 28) hotline responders flagged as inappropriate in post-chat log forms. We used codebook thematic analysis to explore how hotline responders identified and navigated these interactions. Our analysis generated three themes describing the processes through which responders seemed to identify potentially inappropriate chats – detecting implausibly graphic and abusive content, identifying patterns of presumably inauthentic chat topics, and interpreting ambiguous content. Hotline responders seemed to navigate ambiguous and less egregious boundary violations by gently redirecting conversations, and addressed clearer violations by setting firm, direct boundaries. Chatters responded to boundary setting by desisting and disconnecting or attempting to reengage responders. Findings highlight ambiguities and challenges web-based sexual assault hotline responders face and suggest a need for additional responder support, training, and debriefing options.

Examining second-stage shelters: insights into housing instability and tailored support for IPV survivors

BackgroundIntimate Partner Violence (IPV) exposes women and children to a wide range of challenges across housing, employment, social connections, and child well-being and is a public health issue. IPV survivors are at heightened risk of housing insecurity and homelessness. Emergency shelters have historically offered respite and support, but the emergence of second-stage shelters provides longer-term solutions. Despite their significance, there has been a lack of comprehensive research on second-stage shelters. This study focuses on understanding the needs of IPV survivors accessing second-stage shelters, aiming to illuminate unexplored aspects of support. To examine the current published peer-reviewed literature and gray literature on second-stage shelters, a scoping review was conducted.MethodsThis scoping review used the method suggested by Arksey & O’Malley (2005) and considered all studies that focused on women who had experienced IPV and were accessing transitional housing/second-stage shelters.ResultsSixteen articles, mainly from the USA and published between 1985 and 2022, were included in the analysis. The findings highlighted themes of (1) a safe(r) place, with the subtheme of ‘gated’ communities, and (2) programming and services, with the subtheme of does one size fit all? and (3) insider support, with subthemes of paid insider support and peer insider support.ConclusionsHousing instability was evident, and the need for multiple and individualized tailored options of programming and support along with housing security was identified. Second-stage housing policy and practice implications are addressed which illuminate unexplored aspects of support.

Social Support and Resilience Among 2023 Türkiye Earthquake Survivors: Spirituality as a Mediator

The aim of this study is to examine the mediating role of spirituality in the relationship between social support and resilience among 2023 Türkiye earthquake survivors. A total of 473 earthquake survivors, 293 female (61.9%) and 180 male (38.1%) participated to the study. The age range of earthquake survivors participating in the study ranges from 18-34. Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), Brief Resilience Scale, and Spiritual Orientation Scale were used to collect data from earthquake survivors who directly experienced the earthquake. Results show significant positive relationships between social support, resilience, and spirituality. Also, the relationship between social support and resilience was mediated by spirituality. Research findings indicate that social support and spirituality can contribute to the recovery processes of earthquake survivors after traumatic events. It is recommended that researchers and practitioners provide systematic social support for earthquake survivors. In addition, spiritual intervention methods can contribute to resilience levels of e earthquake survivors.

Stakeholder perceptions of gaps and solutions in addressing child trafficking

IntroductionGovernments, researchers, and community-based organizations have mobilized to develop interventions and programs addressing child trafficking, resulting in large amounts of financial resources allocated to awareness-raising campaigns, crisis services for survivors, and increasing judicial responses to trafficking. Low-resource and low-income countries face the dual challenge of addressing child trafficking within an environment where extreme poverty is pervasive and customary norms might conflict with national anti-trafficking policies. The purpose of this study is to understand challenges faced in addressing child trafficking and identify interventions that are community-driven and contextually relevant. MethodologyThe study used a qualitative community-based participatory research approach by collaborating with local researchers, government, and NGOs to examine how key stakeholders perceive existing gaps in policies and programs aimed at countering child trafficking in Sierra Leone. ResultsSix gaps in policies and services were identified by stakeholders: access to and availability of local programs and services for families; access to and affordability of schooling and vocational training in local communities; lack of policy implementation and enforcement of existing laws, especially at the local level; inadequate funding for anti-trafficking service providers; lack of community support for survivors of trafficking, and a lack of coordinated and consistent community response. In a demonstration of the trauma-informed and survivor-centered study design, participants also suggested possible ways to bridge these gaps. Discussion and conclusionAn ecological approach is critical in designing policies and programs responsive to the complex problem of child trafficking within an environment of low resources and potential conflicts between cultural norms and national policies. Practitioners in such contexts must be culturally-competent and prepared to seamlessly work across the micro-mezzo-macro continuum to enhance the best interest of the child.