Abstract: Introduction: This paper uses interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) to explore the lived experiences of asylum-seekers and refugees responding to severe stress and trauma. Specifically, spiritual development, meaning-making, resilience and post-traumatic responses are investigated. Given the paucity of research in this area, a fine-grained understanding of human adaptive capabilities in extreme circumstances may present opportunities for evidence-based interventions that could increase resilience and decrease the impact of significant adversity. Leeds Beckett University is supported in this research by a Yorkshire-based specialist psychotherapy organization working with refugees/asylum-seekers. Methods: 15 refugees/asylum-seekers who have been in the UK for not less than a 2-year period made up a relatively large sample for IPA. IPA enabled insight into how individuals made sense of unique and everyday experiences within the realms of spirituality, psychological resilience, and holistic health. Generic experiential themes paired with interpretations from two independent researchers were aligned to each transcript to reach a satisfactory level of agreement. This follows established principles and practices for conducting IPA on transcript data. Findings: Outcomes emanating from the study focus upon the processes and outcomes of asylum-seekers and refugees’ spiritually, meaning-making, resilience and post-traumatic growth. A detailed analysis of personal accounts helps to inform locally and nationally based stakeholders (e.g. health and care providers, governmental and non-governmental organisations) to address the psycho-social and spiritual needs of this target group. The challenges and benefits of using IPA as a popular framework in qualitative health psychology are also considered when conducting research with this target group.
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)