City Research Online

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to share research findings on the lived experiences of asylum seekers in Bristol (UK), with a particular focus on psychological needs and sources of resilience. Action research was employed with thematic analysis used to interpret data of semi-structured interviews. Research was conducted in three phases involving nine coresearchers. Four themes resulted from the analysis of data: Sense of Injustice, Experiences of Loss, Living in Fear and Finding Strength in Connection. Aspects of the asylum system were perceived by co-researchers as unfair, contributing to existing losses and promoting fear. Strength was found through engaging with communities and religious practices.The findings highlight challenges which are faced by asylum seekers after migrating to the UK and indicate how these do not allow for psychological needs to be met, undermining resilience. They suggest that asylum seekers feel misrepresented and misunderstood within the public realm. It is argued that by creating opportunities for the experiences and knowledge of asylum seekers to be shared, the current asylum legislation is shown to be unjustifiable, and social justice questions are raised. The approach of action research offers original insights into asylum seekers’ lives in Bristol, providing valuable detail about how seeking asylum is experienced in this context. Methodological considerations are offered to inform possible future research.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Departments:	Doctoral Theses School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Psychology School of Health & Psychological Sciences > School of Health & Psychological Sciences Doctoral Theses

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