Experiences of adult refugees : resilience and mothering

This doctoral thesis is composed of three parts. Chapter One is a Systematic Literature Review exploring the current literature on understanding experiences of resilience in adult refugees. Using Thematic Synthesis data three main themes were identified: Individual Power, Never Truly Being Alone and The Bigger Picture. The findings demonstrated adult refugees drew upon internal resilience, as well as familial and community support to overcome the challenges they faced. Maintaining their determination was a strategy utilised to improve the lives of future generations and their families. Gender differences in relation to resilience were discussed, including differences in upholding gender roles. The Systematic Review provided practical and policy related recommendations. Chapter 2 is a qualitative research study that explored the experiences of refugee mothers who have travelled to the United Kingdom (UK) with their children. Using an Interpretative Phenomenology Approach (IPA), semi-structured interviews were conducted and analysed. The findings identified three superordinate themes including: Between a Rock and a Hard Place, Building Resilience and The Child is Priority. Mothers described the traumatic experiences they endured, that resulted in making life altering decisions. They drew upon internal resilience, as well as external sources, including their families and organisations. The mothers took their roles extremely seriously through doing whatever it took to look after their children, even if the cost was to themselves. This study provided practical and policy related recommendations. The final chapter, Chapter 3, is a reflective paper exploring my own experiences of conducting this doctoral thesis, using the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) model to help guide my reflections. It highlighted my values and why I was drawn to this research subject and discussed external and internal barriers faced. It also highlighted how the process of carrying out the research has influenced me both professionally and personally.