Measuring subjective well-being in an understudied population of young Western-African IDPs and refugees

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to report a real-life empirical case and discuss some caveats emerged in measuring subjective well-being (SWB) in an understudied population of adolescents refugees from West Africa. Design/methodology/approach During the process of translation and cultural adaptation of the subjective well-being assessment scale in the target population, the model of measurement presented some weakness with regard to content validity criteria. Findings This leads to a partial revision of the model and the development of new locally-based domains of SWB. Originality/value Context-specific factors’ robustness showed the dynamic and culture-informed nature of the SWB construct. Practical and theoretical implications of using quantitative questionnaires in non-western contexts characterized by high grades of insecurity and instability will be discussed.

The violence of uncertainty: Empirical evidence on how asylum waiting time undermines refugee health

“…The effect of religion was mixed failing to convincingly support existing claims about the role of religion in building the resilience of refugees (Veronese et al, 2019). It is not clear why waiting time has less of a negative association with health for Muslims than Christians.…”

“…Elsewhere religion is cited as a protective factor in enabling refugees' every day coping with displacement that can offer some protection from psychological disorders (i.e. Babatunde-Sowole et al, 2016;Veronese et al, 2019) and instability caused by ongoing uncertainty operating as a coping mechanism (Wu et al, 2020). It is unclear whether religious identity or practice underpin these associations though it is possible that religious practice or gatherings may provide broader social and support network resulting in better mental wellbeing.…”

Human insecurity and psychological well-being in migrants hosted in a Nigerian transit center: A qualitative exploration on risk and protective factors

“…Common examples include highlighting the few favorable aspects of migration or falsifying their justification for returning home in exchange for a more honorable explanation. In turn, this creates a vicious cycle: false narratives and rumors enchant fellow villagers and seductive anticipation takes hold as they are enticed to leave home for the migration dream (Veronese et al, 2019b).…”

التكيف الذاتي للعائلات السورية المهاجرة في الجزائر

“…In Turkey, only Syrians who have proof of residence can obtain a work permit, which permits them to work formally according to new temporary protection measures. The procedures for obtaining proof of residence, however, are cumbersome; consequently, the majority of Syrians emigrant employment is informal (Ximena, 2015). Meanwhile, Algerian authorities continue to ban Syrian emigrants from any formal economic activity.…”