Survivors' conceptualizations of human trafficking prevention; An exploratory study.

The purpose of this study was to explicate a conceptual framework for the prevention of human trafficking from the perspective of those most impacted: human trafficking survivors. In doing so establishing an empirical foundation for human trafficking prevention research. To achieve this aim, researchers employed Group Concept Mapping (GCM). GCM is an integrated, mixed-method, research design that analyzes qualitative data via quantitative approaches, namely multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analyses. All participants (N = 35) identified as human trafficking survivors from one of four states in the United States. Results indicate that survivors in this sample conceptualize prevention via a 10-cluster solution. Furthermore survivors rated the cluster on Education and Awareness (9) as the most Important (4.60), as well as the most Feasible (4.28). This paper will review extant literature related to human trafficking, explicate results from this study, and discuss pragmatic prevention implications related to findings.

Supporting collegiate foster youth and alumni: A mixed-method planning approach for higher education.

Despite the proliferation, of on-campus academic support programs for foster youth and alumni (e.g., those formerly in foster care), few conceptual frameworks for developing these programs exist. This study employed Group Concept Mapping (GCM) methodology to delineate a conceptual framework, from the perspective of foster youth and alumni (N = 51), for the development of on-campus support initiatives. GCM is an integrated mixed-method research method that uses non-metric multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analyses, to analyze qualitative data (e.g., statement form) collected during brainstorming sessions. This research was guided by two separate queries: (1) How do foster youth/alumni conceptualize support programs to support foster youth/alumni through to degree completion; and, (2) Is there a difference in priority areas of this conceptualization between current college students, and those who have dropped out of college within the last 18 months? Analyses revealed that participants conceptualized on-campus support programs via an eight-cluster solution, including Campus Awareness, Advocacy, Data Tracking, Pre-College Supports, Fostering Family Connections, Academic Financing, Campus Life, and Peer/Mentor Supports clusters. Additionally, analyses revealed significant priority ratings between areas of this conceptualization. In terms of Importance to academic success, current students rated statements in the Academic Financing and Peer/Mentor Supports clusters significantly lower than did non-students. For Feasibility, current students viewed statements in the Data Tracking, Campus Life, and Peer/Mentor Supports clusters as significantly more feasible than non-students. Pragmatic implications derived from these findings include fostering inclusive campus environments for foster youth/alumni and advocacy undertakings by institutions, on behalf of this population.