Research challenges in studying human trafficking survivor populations

¶ … stay motivated' over the course of a long and involved research project. The main questions I face are finding an adequately-sized population of individuals to study who are willing and able (logistically and emotionally) to participate in my research project on the effects of human trafficking. Once I have my test population I believe that my assurance and comfort level about completing the dissertation will be greater. However, even then additional and unexpected ethical concerns may arise regarding the emotional health of the population I am studying; the need for appropriate cultural sensitivity, and translation questions. Once these areas are resolved then I will feel I will be able to select my committee and chair to complete my prospectus.

My interest level in and passion for the subject remains high: after researching the pervasiveness of human trafficking I feel more motivated than ever to ensure that the voices of women who have been trafficked are heard. I also believe that there is a great deal still unknown about human trafficking within academia and I hope to add to the conversation on this very important and relevant topic. I most look forward to conducting my physically-based research (the actual interviewing process). The technical aspects of coding and statistically analyzing the results are the components which intimidate me the most and provoke the greatest anxieties.