Social Work Interventions in Refugee Camps

Abstract

This article offers findings from qualitative needs assessment of Kosovar refugees in south Albania at approximately one month following their flight from Kosovo (May, 1999). Common themes emerged from the interview data including trauma and the desire for emotional help, lack of information about loved ones, and the need for activities and self-determination in the camps. Framing these findings within an ecological model of human development, we propose a comprehensive approach to social work interventions in refugee camps. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-HAWORTH.

Migration and Social Work

“…Direct services including information and referral related to settlement needs, as well as counseling. For refugees, apart from providing information, social workers have a role to play in mitigating the intensity of trauma experienced through appropriate humanitarian service response (Drumm et al, 2003).…”

Iraqi refugees and the humanitarian costs of the Iraq war: What role for social work?

“…Ager, Strang and Abebe (2005) posited a model of community development in post‐conflict societies which emphasizes psychosocial services as essential to strengthening social capital. The health and mental health needs of refugees fleeing civil war (Weaver & Burns, 2001; Witmer & Culver, 2001), social work interventions with Kosovar refugees in Albanian refugee camps (Drumm, Pittman & Perry, 2003), the circumstances of Afghan women in exile (Ross, 2006), and the lack of adequate psychosocial and mental health services for refugee women and children in Africa (Kabeera & Sewpaul, 2008; Sossou, 2006) are some examples of this literature. Other research has emphasized service provision for persons who have sought refuge in resettlement countries following conflict or war (Balgopal, 2000; Potocky, 1996a; Ryan, 1993).…”

Teaching Human Development: Current Theoretical Deficits and a Theory-Enriched “Models, Metaphors, and Maps” Remedy

“…Cummings, Bride, & Rawlins-Shaw (2006) reported on the use of age-specific, cognitive-behavioral practice theory to guide work with elderly persons abusing alcohol. Drumm, Pittman, & Perry, (2003) employed Bronfenbrenner's ecological theoretical approach to guide interventions in refugee camps for Kosovar refugees and thus minimize trauma.…”