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The application of coercive control theory to youth sex trafficking

Schlangen, Elizabeth Ann (2022) The application of coercive control theory to youth sex trafficking. Masters thesis, Northern Arizona University.

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Abstract

This thesis project investigates the relational aspect of YST victimization and the applicability of the theory of coercive control to YST. It explores the relative similarities between YST experiences and intimate partner violence (IPV) relationships. In pursuit of greater understanding, I reviewed existing literature in the field with a sharpened focus on concepts of vulnerability, agency, social inequality, and coercive control. Utilizing a qualitative methodological approach, I interviewed nine service providers who directly interact with youth who have experienced sex trafficking. Following interviews with service providers, I employed reflexive thematic analysis to extract relevant and meaningful themes from the interview data including but not limited to: 1) coercive control in YST, 2) coercive control influencing the initiation and retention of YST victimized youth, and 3) service providers’ conceptualization of vulnerability and agency among youth in YST situations. Parallels are drawn between YST and IPV according to relationality, barriers to exit, and abuse minimization. In the conclusion, implications of this project for policy focus on improvement in the areas of race, class, and gender inequality, as well as the redistribution of resources, the breakdown of stereotypes, and the restructuring of traditional social expectations nationwide.

Item Type: Thesis (Masters)
Publisher’s Statement: © Copyright is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the Cline Library, Northern Arizona University. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.
Keywords: coercive control theory; sex trafficking; youth
Subjects: H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare
NAU Depositing Author Academic Status: Student
Department/Unit: Graduate College > Theses and Dissertations
College of Social and Behavioral Science > Criminology and Criminal Justice
Date Deposited: 31 May 2023 17:27
Last Modified: 31 May 2023 17:27
URI: https://openknowledge.nau.edu/id/eprint/5929

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