Occupational Upheaval during Resettlement and Migration: Findings of Global Ethnography with Refugees with Disabilities

Abstract

There is an emerging interest in issues of occupational justice and occupational deprivation within contemporary occupational therapy practice and theory. To inform this emerging agenda, research with populations at risk of occupational injustice is crucial. This study used a global ethnography framework to explore disabled refugees' access to occupational participation in the context of the U.S. refugee resettlement program. Narrative data from eight Cambodian and seven Somali refugees were combined with documentary analysis and information obtained from service providers. Data were analyzed using grounded theory techniques. Findings revealed a strong policy emphasis on employment and self-sufficiency within the U.S. refugee resettlement program. Consequently, resettlement service providers focused on the dichotomous options of work or welfare, overlooking the broader occupational needs of disabled refugees. Lacking supportive services for developing vocational skills or exploring occupational alternatives, the refugees struggled to find occupational avenues that would earn them social validity and integration into American society, leading to feelings of isolation and inadequacy. Research and practice initiatives with this population need to consider the role of institutional factors in shaping their occupational participation and evolving occupational needs.

Occupational experiences of forced migrants: A scoping review

“…The search for paid employment was further complicated by the language and educational qualifications required for a variety of jobs in host societies (Smith, 2012;Smith, Stephenson & Gibson-Satterthwaite, 2013;Werge-Olsen & Vik, 2012;Whiteford, 2005). Engaging in productive occupations was particularly challenging for refugees living with disabilities (Mirza, 2012;Mirza & Heinemann, 2012). Limited opportunities for employment and a lack of advocacy resources stigmatised these refugees and labelled them as 'non-employable', driving them further away from paid employment and prompting a reliance on social assistance (Mirza).…”

“…However, many of the studies reviewed highlighted that participants lived in a state of occupational imbalance following their relocation due to pressures for economic self-sufficiency (Horghagen & Josephsson, 2010;Smith et al, 2013;Stickley & Stickley, 2010). This struggle was particularly emphasised in research focusing on refugee women (Mirza, 2012;Smith, 2012;Smith et al). Nonetheless, efforts to enhance occupational balance were successful to some extent through engagement in occupations of leisure and productivity.…”

“…Adapting occupations was emphasised as a way for forced migrants to bridge the gap between the dominant cultures of their home and host societies, thereby maintaining a sense of continuity in their lives (Bishop & Purcell, 2013;Horghagen & Josephsson, 2010;Mirza, 2012;Morville & Erlandsson, 2013;Werge-Olsen & Vik, 2012). For example, Werge-Olsen and Vik described how one participant who was no longer able to play football continued to enjoy this occupation by instead watching it with friends who shared his interest.…”

Fostering Community-Academic Partnerships to Promote Employment Opportunities for Refugees with Disabilities: Accomplishments, Dilemmas, and Deliberations

“…Resettled refugees with disabilities generally find limited opportunities for integration into their host society [9]. Language barriers, cultural differences, and limited awareness of disability-related supports and resources all contribute to their social isolation and negatively impact their ability to thrive economically.…”

“…Disability-related supports, such as wheelchair-accessible locations, sign language interpreters, or access to disability-related work incentives, are seldom accommodated within this support system [12]. Furthermore, service providers may perceive refugees with disabilities as unemployable and consequently channel them toward welfare assistance rather than encouraging them to pursue income-generating opportunities [9]. Refugees with disabilities may also be disconnected from mainstream support services [12].…”