The Struggle for Survival of Syrian Immigrant Single Mothers: A Qualitative Study in Türkiye

ABSTRACT Civil wars, displacement and building a new life in the host country are complex and challenging for single migrant mothers. This study presents findings from interviews on the social integration, socioeconomic needs, child‐rearing experiences and repositioning experiences of Syrian single migrant mothers living in Turkey. This study adopted a constructivist grounded theory approach and guided its analysis by using thematic principles. The study analysed eight interviews with single migrant mothers and revealed six main themes, each with sub‐themes. Language barriers, social exclusion and traditional cultural expectations complicate both employment and integration. Housing and employment problems and difficulties in accessing basic needs, point to complex financial challenges. Children's school adaptation problems, the effects of migration trauma, and the lack of fathers are child‐rearing challenges. Severe economic inadequacies, the need for intensive psychological support and uncertain future agendas increase maternal vulnerability. Economic difficulties, lack of social support, psychological burden and future anxiety contribute to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. Finally, the transformation of identity and power dynamics among migrant women represents a multilayered process that involves independence shocks and identity crises. These findings can guide social service practices and policies for migrant mothers.