Forced displacement can cause profound trauma and losses, including the loss of home, community, culture, and family separation. Psychological approaches, rooted in Western epistemology, often focus on trauma diagnostically, which may not capture the broader familial, social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of refugees’ experiences, nor sources of resilience. Understanding displacement requires deeper conceptualisation to capture the lived realities of refugee families. This study provides empirical evidence of how refugee families’ trauma, loss, and separation are shaped by gender, generational dynamics, and spirituality, and how policies and practices can better support wellbeing. The researcher will adopt a family-oriented ethnographic and phenomenological approach, including semi-structured interviews and participant observation with refugee families of diverse ethnicities. Approximately 20 participants will be recruited, with two to three interviews per family across genders and generations. Semi-structured interviews with faith leaders and professionals will also be conducted. This approach is best suited to understanding refugee families’ complex lived experiences. The research adopts a collaborative approach, with preliminary findings shared and reflected on with participants. Trauma Treatment International as a collaborative partner, will provide reflective practice-based guidance and co-supervision.
The project will generate important new evidence to inform gender-sensitive, trauma-informed, and
culturally responsive policies and practices. The research will support refugees and practitioners in
building inclusive, resilient, and adaptable communities where refugee families can experience
connection, meaningful support, and a sense of ‘home.’ It will enhance professional training,
community practice, and practical approaches to refugee family wellbeing and make an innovative
contribution to the Healthy, Thriving Communities theme.