Traumatic Exploitation and Women's Survival Strategies in Chika Unigwe' On Black Sisters' Street and Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo Traffiged

Abstract This study investigates trauma and survival strategies in Chika Unigwe’s On Black Sisters’ Street and Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo’s Trafficked. The purpose is to identify the traumatic experiences of the female characters, examine the recovery process, and explore the survival strategies that help them recover and rebuild their lives. To achieve this purpose, Judith Herman’s trauma theory is used as a guiding framework. A qualitative research method was used in analysing the primary texts. The analysis focused on the representation of trauma through sexual exploitation, physical abuse, psychological breakdown, and loss of identity. It also examined the stages of the characters's recovery using Herman’s stages of recovery namely; safety, remembrance and mourning, and reconnection. The findings reveals that the female characters in the two novels experience severe trauma caused by violence and betrayal but they also show signs of resilience. Also, survival strategies like making friendships, mutual support and building trust are crucial in mental recovery of a traumatised person. In addition, the study finds out that solidarity and emotional support among women are essential in coping with trauma and retaining independence. Consequently, the study implies that literature can give voice to victims of trafficking and encourage social awareness about women’s suffering. It recommends stronger support and rehabilitation systems for victims and further literary studies on trauma and recovery among African women.