Impact of pre-trauma, trauma-specific, and post-trauma variables on psychosocial adjustment of Syrian refugee school-age children

J Health Psychol. 2021 Sep;26(11):1780-1790. doi: 10.1177/1359105319886651. Epub 2019 Nov 8.

Abstract

This study investigated the psychosocial adjustment in Syrian refugee children and adolescents who resettled in Lebanon and Jordan by examining the potential effects of pre-trauma, trauma-specific, and post-trauma variables. The sample consisted of 1000 children. The results indicated that a child's adjustment was correlated with the host country, traumatic events, and time spent in host country. Coping strategies, family relationships, and school environment are strong predictors. Interventions may target psychosocial problems and risk modifiers that focus on emotion regulation, cognitive restructuring, problem-solving and coping skills, positive relationships within the family, and positive school environment.

Keywords: Jordan; Lebanon; Syrian refugee children and adolescents; coping styles; family relationships; psychosocial adjustment; school environment; war atrocities.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Jordan
  • Lebanon
  • Refugees*
  • Schools
  • Syria