The Unseen and Unheard: The Economic Struggles After the Captivity in Finding Me by Michelle Knight

Abstract

The Research paper explores the economic and social challenges faced by Michelle Knight ensuing her break out from a decade of captivity, as elaborated in her memoir Finding Me: A Decade of Darkness, a Life Reclaimed. While her traumatic grievance is prominent, her post-captivity struggles, particularly economic reintegration, lack of institutional support, and emotional labour, remain significantly concealed and exceptional. By applying Feminist Economic Theory, the analysis reveals how trauma continues to shape her identity and economic marginalisation even after her physical rescue. Feminist Economic Theory critiques the gendered undervaluation of her emotional and survival labour; these frameworks highlight the structural barriers survivors face and challenge the societal narrative that freedom alone guarantees healing. It brings in the comprehensive understanding of survivor recovery, one that accounts for economic justice and systemic reform.