The Complex Dynamics Between Discrimination and Traumatic Experiences Among Refugees in the United States

The National Comorbidity Survey suggest that majority of men and women among all U.S. adults aged 18 to 55 have experienced at least one traumatic event during their lives. However, a significant gap exists in comparable documentation regarding the prevalence of trauma among refugees, including associated factors such as coping mechanisms. To address this, employing a cross-sectional design, our study surveyed 222 individuals between the ages of 13 and 70 years, identifying as part of the refugee population. The purpose was to illuminate the intersection between discrimination, resilience, social support, religiosity, refugee-focused programs, and various demographic factors, including age, gender, education level, income, family size, marital status, time lived in the U.S., and refugee traumatic experiences. Our results not only confirm previous research findings on the factors associated with trauma symptoms but also unveil novel insights into the available resources that contribute to mitigating traumatic symptoms during the refugee transition into the host country. This research addresses a critical gap in understanding the unique challenges faced by refugees and the complex interplay of factors influencing their mental health. The findings contribute valuable insights to the existing body of knowledge, providing a nuanced perspective on the intricacies of the refugee experience and establishing the groundwork for tailored interventions and support mechanisms.