Invisible Survival: Informal Networks and the Limits of Social Services for Syrian Refugee Families in Gaziantep

OpenAlex Turkish

Purpose: This study aims to analyze the social problems encountered by Syrian refugee families living in the city center of Gaziantep and their coping strategies from a social work perspective.Design/Methodology: Designed as a qualitative study, the research is based on semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted with 24 Syrian families with diverse socio-economic and demographic characteristics. The gathered data were analyzed using the thematic analysis method.Findings: The results indicate that Syrian refugee families are not passive victims during and after the forced migration process; instead, they develop multi-layered coping strategies by utilizing their existing resources, social networks, and intra-family dynamics. While dealing with poverty, social exclusion, and difficulties in accessing services, families effectively use informal solidarity networks and restructure intra-family roles. However, the study also reveals that the inadequacy of rights-based social work mechanisms deepens vulnerabilities.Limitations: The primary limitations of the study are its qualitative design and the fact that the sample is limited to 24 families residing specifically in the city center of Gaziantep.Originality/Value: The original value of this research lies in its focus on the active coping practices and social capital transformations of refugee families—rather than viewing them solely through a lens of victimization—thereby providing essential insights for strengthening empowerment-based social work policies.