Family interventions in traumatized immigrants and refugees: A systematic review

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Abstract

The importance of the family as a unit in the aftermath of trauma necessitates the use of family interventions among immigrants and refugees. While abundant clinical material suggests that family-based trauma interventions are applicable across cultures, very little is known about the extent to which family treatment modalities are effective for immigrants and refugees. We conducted a systematic review of intervention studies that have been designed or modified specifically for traumatized immigrant and refugee families. The terms “trauma,” “family,” and “immigrants/refugees/culture” were used along with different terms for “intervention.” Studies with no research methodology were excluded. Only 6 experimental studies met our inclusion criteria; 4 of them describe school-based interventions and 2 present multifamily support groups. The shortage of research in this area does not allow clear conclusions about the effectiveness of family interventions for traumatized immigrants or refugees. The complexity of employing methodologically rigorous research in small communities is discussed. Future trials should go beyond the individualistic approach and focus on posttraumatic stress disorder to address family-level processes, such as family relationship, communication, and resilience.

Citation

Relevant Evidence Summaries

The evidence was reviewed and included in the following summaries: 

How do family interventions impact functioning of newcomer household dynamics?

One strong source of evidence and several smaller moderate and suggestive studies show that interventions on intergenerational relationships can help decrease negative mental health symptoms and increase positive parenting practices. Multiple studies reported significant improvements in the overall mental health of both child and caregiver participants. Caregivers reported high levels of satisfaction with several different […]

About this study

AGE: Multiple Age Groups

DIRECTION OF EVIDENCE: Positive impact

FULL TEXT AVAILABILITY: Paid

GENDER: All

HOST COUNTRY: Multiple countries

INTERVENTION DURATION: Various

POPULATION: Refugees

STRENGTH OF EVIDENCE: Positive impact

TYPE OF STUDY: Systematic review

YEAR PUBLISHED: 2015

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