Loss, Grief and Growth : An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Experiences of Trauma in Asylum-Seekers and Refugees

The experiences of a group of twelve asylum-seekers and refugees based in the United Kingdom (UK) were investigated using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to examine the nature of the trauma experienced by the participants, including the possibility of resilience and posttraumatic growth (PTG). Participants undertook a two-stage interview process - an introductory interview focused around significant artefacts chosen by participants, then a second interview engaging in a more general exploration of their experiences of trauma. Four superordinate themes were extracted from the interview data: (1) loss (2) struggle (3) memory and (4) helping coping strategies. The experience of trauma was characterized by symptoms of suicidal ideation, sleeping problems, flashbacks and high levels of anxiety. A lack of social support and the protracted nature of the asylum-seeking process were particularly problematic. However, characteristics relating to resilience and PTG were also reported, including increased gratitude and a desire to be of service. Religion was reported as a significant source of psychological support.