From Somalia to U.S.: Shifts in Gender Dynamics from the Perspective of Female Somali Refugees. Issue 1 (2nd January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Connor, Jennifer Jo; Hunt, Shanda; Finsaas, Megan; Ciesinski, Amanda; Ahmed, Amira; Robinson, Beatrice "Bean" E.
• Is Part Of: Journal of feminist family therapy. Volume 28:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 29
• Publication Date: 2016-01-02
• Subjects: gender roles -- immigration adjustment -- intersectionality -- refugees; Family psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Feminist therapy -- Periodicals; 616.89156
• DOI: 10.1080/08952833.2015.1130546
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0895-2833

Abstract

Abstract : The purpose of this exploratory qualitative study was to explore shifts in gender dynamics among Somali female refugees who immigrated to the United States (U.S.). We used a community-based approach to recruit 30 participants who were interviewed by a bilingual interviewer. Themes were developed without preordained concepts. Results indicated most women came to the U.S. searching for safety and education. Participants reported increased freedoms, power, and demands within the family. Many women expressed a desire to maintain cultural, religious, and traditional gender roles. Implications for family therapists include attending to intersecting identities of Somali female refugees.