An exploration of asylum seeker and refugee experiences of activity: A literature review

ABSTRACT

This literature review aims to critically appraise and evaluate qualitative papers exploring the experiences of asylum seekers and refugees relating to their engagement in activity following forced migration. Forced migrants are at risk of occupational deprivation, however providing opportunities to engage in meaningful and familiar occupations can improve displaced people’s health and wellbeing. The seven papers reviewed were appraised for methodological quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme for qualitative research. The papers were deemed to range from relatively poor to good quality, however useful insights were drawn from all. The findings suggest that engagement in meaningful activities in host countries can generate positive experiences for forced migrants regarding opportunities to reinforce or develop identity, a sense of wellbeing, and a sense of connection on both personal and community levels. Occupational therapists can promote health and well-being through creating opportunities to engage in meaningful occupations.

KEYWORDS:

• Asylum seekers
• refugees
• forced migrants
• occupational deprivation
• occupational therapy
• activity
• meaningful occupations
• health and wellbeing

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

ORCID

Nicola Spalding http://orcid.org/0000-0002-5251-5482