Changing Routes: The Impact of Traumatic Life Events on Life Satisfaction Among Syrians Under Temporary Protection

İngilizce (OpenAlex)

Since 2011, the civil war in Syria has displaced millions, resulting in a major migration crisis. Syrians under temporary protection in Turkey have faced traumatic events and challenging living conditions. This examines how such experiences affect their life satisfaction. Using a quantitative research method, the study included 106 participants aged 18 to 70. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that avoidance and reexperiencing explained 21.3% of the variance in life satisfaction, making them significant predictors. Additionally, participants who lost a loved one during the war or had acquaintances exposed to violence during migration reported lower life satisfaction, with higher scores in event impact, reexperiencing, and hyperarousal. These findings highlight the need for host countries to implement policies within a rights-based framework to safeguard the mental health and social integration of individuals under temporary protection. Strengthening psychosocial support systems, such as therapy and group sessions, alongside general health screenings, is crucial to improve life satisfaction and aid in post-traumatic recovery. Future research should conduct applied intervention studies to evaluate the long-term effects of such programs. The findings of these studies could contribute to the development of targeted social work interventions, thereby helping to address the complex needs of forcibly displaced individuals.