Factors that Promote Long-Term Psychosocial Resilience in Reintegrated Female Human Trafficking Survivors

The study examines the factors that support long-term psychosocial resilience among reintegrated female survivors of human trafficking in Harare, Zimbabwe. A qualitative research approach was employed. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, focus groups, key informant interviews, and observations with 20 participants who were selected based on the information power model and purposive sampling of key informants. The research was guided by Resilience Theory, and data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that victims rely on internal defence mechanisms such as developing "thick skin," which, both theoretically and practically, helps withstand external pressures, along with leveraging the support of "peer allies," temporarily distorting reality when necessary, and utilizing inner resilience. Overall, the case study also revealed diverse experiences of human trafficking, which necessitated the use of specialized techniques to foster long-term resilience.