Resilience-building interventions in A refugee camp : A qualitative study  on the circumstances and interventions that promotes children's mental well-being in the context of a refugee camp

Sammanfattning: Abstract      Refugee children living in refugee camps are a vulnerable population at a high risk of developing mental health problems, behavioural issues, and being exposed to violence or trauma. However, not all children that experience these stressors of displacement develop negative outcomes. Some children adapt to the circumstances and build resilience against the challenges. Because the number of refugee children has risen, the importance of studying the subject and finding protective factors are critical. Therefore the aim of this study was to look into circumstances and interventions that promote mental well-being and resilience in refugee children in the context of a refugee camp, from a holistic perspective. Considering UN global goals the results of this study can be used in expanding resilience-building interventions in order to promote mental well-being around the world, particularly in developing countries.  A qualitative approach was taken through semi-structured interviews to gather data. Two participants working as practitioners in a resilience-building project in the Zaatari refugee camp in Jordan were selected through a snowball selection. Through the theories of ecology of child development and the model of the seven Cs of resilience, this study identified resilience-building in several levels, including personal, family and community. Having knowledge about the strengths and development potential of oneself, close family relations, a supportive community and peer groups help children to  build resilience and overcome challenges. The study also found that in order to understand resilience-building in children a holistic approach is required. There are strong links between children, their families, their communities, and their psychosocial well-being.