Host Teresa Huizar interviews Dr. Amy Farrell of Northeastern University about a multi-institution study on the physical and mental health needs of commercially sexually exploited youth and their interactions with healthcare systems. The research used a national survey recruited through service agencies and Instagram screening, plus qualitative interviews with adults exploited as minors, examining health before, during, and after exploitation. Findings show exploited youth report significantly higher health concerns than comparable high-risk youth, including higher STI rates, chronic pain, asthma, high blood pressure, and severe depression, anxiety, PTSD, and dissociation; health problems often persist throughout their lives.

Time Stamps

Time Topic

00:00 Episode Setup

01:23 Meet Dr. Amy Farrell

01:43 Why This Study

04:51 Research Questions

06:14 Recruiting The Sample

09:57 Overall Health Findings

13:05 Physical Health Surprises

15:37 Mental Health Impacts

20:27 ACEs and Vulnerability

23:27 Healthcare Access Touchpoints

27:48 Stigma and Broken Trust

32:21 Provider Recommendations

43:11 Future Research

44:58 Closing and Resources

Resources

Understanding the Physical and Psychological Health and Wellness Needs of Minor Sex Trafficking Victims

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