RT journal article
T1 Human Trafficking Myths and Realities: Insights From NGO Support Workers in Southern Spain
A1 Paramio Leiva, Alberto
A1 Tejeiro, Ricardo
A1 Albiol Townsend, Sofía
A2 Psicología
K1 victimization
K1 human trafficking
K1 courts and criminal justice systems/policing
K1 victim treatment and standards of care
K1 coping, vulnerability, and resilience
AB Human trafficking (HT) is often misunderstood due to public myths and media distortion, which hinder effective identification of and support for victims. This study employed thematic analysis of interviews with 10 participants who had several years of experience providing voluntary professional support (social, psychological, or legal) in nongovernmental organizations assisting victims of HT in southern Spain. The interviews explored participants’ perceptions of trafficking myths, their professional experiences with victims, and their views on how trafficking is represented and understood by the public and institutions. Seven key themes were identified: dehumanization and exploitation, victim profiles, recruitment methods, social normalization and concealment, institutional blind spots, structural inequality, and trafficking myths. The findings highlight the need for improved public education, more nuanced media portrayals, and policy reforms that reflect the complex realities of HT. These insights can inform more inclusive and effective interventions.
PB Springer
SN 0886-6708
YR 2026
FD 2026-04-26
LK http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39623
UL http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39623
LA eng
DS Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Cádiz
RD 06-nov-2026