Bridge to Freedom Foundation (BTFF) is conducting research as a part of its Division Research and Evidence Based Programming in order to identify possible recovery hurdles that trafficked survivors come across. As a part of this research, we are distributing a survey and invite you to participate in this process. 

For more information about Bridge to Freedom Foundation, see our website at www.BridgetoFreedomFoundation.org. 

If you have any questions, concerns, comments, or know of anyone that is in need of services, you may contact us at:  
PO Box 2492
Merrifield, VA 22115 
(703) 256-5718
services@btff.org

Why Complete This Survey?

Current attempts to deal with the issue modern day slavery, have demonstrated a lack of particular attention to the individualized wants and needs of survivors. There is minimal research regarding survivors' rehabilitation and recovery process. Part of the task of dealing with the problem trafficking requires appropriately addressing the hurdles survivors face. Thus, this research seeks to give light to how survivors begin to heal, what they need and want in order to help them, and how organizations can work to increase the efficacy of this process. Most importantly, this research is about giving voice to those who are often not heard or even ignored in order to better help them. 

This project will help to determine the resources necessary for trafficked survivors to move from surviving to thriving.  It will also help us to gather data on and examine what has been both ineffective and successful in rehabilitation and recovery. The information gathered from this project will offer ways for individuals and organizations to better understand the situations of survivors and as a result create more inclusive and sustainable rehabilitation and reintegration programs to assist them. For example, it will directly help BTFF in the development of their Personal and Professional Development Programs. But, we will also make our findings public, and share it with other individuals and organizations working in the field, both locally and globally to aid them in their endeavors to help trafficked survivors. These findings might translate into programs to develop coping strategies for survivors concerning housing, career preparation, education, self-esteem development, and support groups. The establishment and implementation of these critical programs will allow survivors to overcome recovery hurdles and develop coping strategies as a way of finding personal peace by gaining personal autonomy and independence.

Confidentiality Policy  

Your participation in this research study is voluntary. You may choose not to participate and you may withdraw your consent to participate at any time. You will not be penalized in any way should you decide not to participate or withdraw from this study.  

We hope you will answer as many questions as possible, though you are able to complete as much or as little as you would like as we will accept and are thankful for any data you are willing to provide. There are no serious risks involved. Any inquiries regarding sensitive topics or information have been excluded. If at any time you feel uncomfortable with any questions provided, please feel free to ignore particular questions or leave them unanswered in order to protect you from any discomfort that may occur. You may choose to not to answer any questions or discontinue the survey at any time.  

All information provided in this survey will remain confidential. We will do everything that can be done to protect your privacy. Your name will not be recorded on the survey and no identifying information is requested. Your identity will remain anonymous unless you specify otherwise as indicated below.  

Bridge to Freedom Foundation (BTFF), however, does intend to continue and expand on this research. If you are interested in participating further by completing additional surveys, undergoing interviews or focus groups, or other forms of research, please provide us with a way to contact you below.   Nevertheless, we promise to maintain confidentiality under all circumstances and will not make your information or identity public.

Age?

Sex?

Have you ever or are you constantly dieting or counting calories?  Please explain.

Have you ever or do you have an intense fear of gaining weight?  Please explain.

Have you ever or do you limit your food intake as a result of stress, negative emotions, or physical abuse?  Please explain.

Is it important to maintain a particular body image for someone other than yourself?  If so, who and why?  Please include past experiences. 

Have you ever or do you ever binge-eat a large quantity of food only to attempt to get rid of the food by vomiting or taking laxatives, or excessively exercise to work off the calories?  Please explain.

Have you ever or do you purge as a way to release your emotions?  Please explain.

Have you ever been diagnosed with an eating disorder such as, Bulimia Nervosa or Anorexia Nervosa?  Please explain.

Since your relationship with your pimp/trafficker, has your eating habits and/or weight changed drastically?  Please explain.

Race or Ethnicity?    

How did you find out about this suvey and/or please provide us with a way to contact you if you are interested in participating further in this research?