A narrative inquiry into experiences of Syrian refugee families with children living with disabilities

Abstract

Purpose Children who are refugees and who live with disabilities are among the most at-risk groups for marginalization due to compounded disadvantages from the intersection of risk factors such as refugee status and disability status. Despite their high risk, there is no systematic data collected on this group and scant literature on the topic contributing to a feeling of invisibility. The purpose of this study is to better understand the experiences of Syrian refugee families with children living with disabilities. Design/methodology/approach The authors conducted a narrative inquiry into the experiences of two Syrian refugee families with children living with disabilities. Narrative inquiry is a way to understand experience as a storied phenomenon. Findings In attending to the families’ stories of their experiences across time, place and social contexts, two narrative threads resonated across their experiences including waiting and a struggle for agency as well as disruption and continuity. Research limitations/implications Narrative inquiry does not produce generalizable results but, rather, gives insight into the unique experiences of individuals. Originality/value To understand the complexities of the experience of a refugee family with a child living with disabilities, attending to their lived and told stories is essential.