Reconstructing a Sense of Safety among Resettled Refugee Survivors of Torture: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study

Abstract

Introduction:The experience of torture can have a lasting impact on survivors’ physical, psychological and social well-being and threaten their sense of safety. Methods: This study utilized a constructivist grounded theory approach to describe the strategies and tactics for reconstructing a sense of safety used by torture survivors receiving holistic treatment after resettlement. Results: The description that emerged included the following four themes: seeking out a “safer” physical environment, turning inward, forming selective “safe” attachments, and strengthening personal resources. Discussion: These findings highlight the importance of designing interventions that recognize safety as a critical component of the healing process.

Keywords:

• Resettled refugee(s)
• torture/trauma
• perceived safety
• mental health
• qualitative methods
• constructivist grounded theory

Notes

1 Strictly speaking, a primary survivor is defined as one who has been directly threatened and/or inflicted with physical, emotional, and/or psychological torture. A secondary survivor is defined as one who has directly witnessed torture being inflicted on a relative, friend, or community member.