PREVICT-SW: Protocol for a Quasi-Experimental Participatory Study to Prevent Violence Against Sex Workers

Area of Science:

• Victimology
• Criminology
• Public Health

Background:

• Sex workers face high rates of violent and property victimization.
• Existing victimological theories and prevention strategies inadequately address the unique risks of this population.
• Structural, situational, and cumulative risks require tailored approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors and victimization trajectories among sex workers.
• To refine victimological theory with insights from a vulnerable population.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a novel, needs-based prevention program.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods, longitudinal quasi-experimental design.
• Study conducted in Swiss cantons with no prior targeted prevention programs.
• Intervention co-developed with sex workers and stakeholders, integrating sensitization, crime prevention, legal education, and psychosocial support.

Main Results:

• Protocol outlines the methodology for data collection and program evaluation.
• Aims to provide critical evidence on risk factors and intervention effectiveness.
• Expected to advance victimological theory and inform practical applications.

Conclusions:

• The study protocol is designed to address a critical gap in victim support for sex workers.
• Findings will inform the development of scalable, evidence-based prevention strategies.
• Contributes to refining theoretical understanding and practical interventions in victimology.