Engagement of Sexual Violence Survivors in Research: Trauma-Informed Research in the THRIVE Study

• Authors: Katherine M Anderson, Emory University; Maile Y Karris, University of California San Diego; Alexandra Fernandez DeSoto, University of California San Diego; Sara Giovanna Carr, University of California San Diego; Jamila K Stockman, University of California San Diego
• Journal Title: Violence Against Women
• Volume: Volume 29, Number 11
• Publisher: SAGE | 2023-09-01, Pages 2239-2265
• Type of Work: Article | Final Publisher PDF
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1177/10778012221125501
• Subjects: Health Sciences, Public Health; Psychology, Behavioral; Education, Health
• Keywords: ethics; sexual trauma; sexual violence; trauma theory; trauma-Informed care; Humans; Case-Control Studies; Sex Offenses; Survivors

Abstract

Given the potential for retraumatization among survivors of sexual violence engaged in research, we aimed to provide pertinent knowledge and exemplification of the integration of trauma-informed practice to research with survivors. Grounded in trauma-informed care, we discuss the need for trauma-informed research, drawing upon experiences and data from a longitudinal case-control study on sexual violence. Through trauma-informed research settings, we can improve research experiences for survivors of sexual violence, as demonstrated by positive experiences of participants in The THRIVE Study. By meeting the needs of survivors, researchers can increase participation while maximizing the research quality and advancement of research.