Life satisfaction and occupational competence of Syrians under temporary protection in Türkiye: a cross-sectional study

Purpose This study aims to examine the relationship between life satisfaction, occupational competence and occupational value, as well as the determinants of life satisfaction among Syrians under temporary protection in Türkiye. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional design was used with a sample of 189 Syrian refugees, and the data were collected through an online survey. Data were collected using a sociodemographic form, the Contentment with Assessment Life Scale (CLAS) and the Occupational Self Assessment (OSA), which includes measures for occupational competence and occupational value. Findings The results showed a significant positive correlation between CLAS and OSA-competence (r = 0.193, p = 0.008), and between OSA-competence and OSA-value (r = 0.173, p = 0.017). In the hierarchical regression analyses, significant predictors of CLAS included not speaking other languages (β = −2.47, p = 0.011), divorced (β = −3.64, p = 0.062) or being widowed (β = −9.85, p = 0.032) and OSA-competence (β = 0.14, p = 0.001). OSA-competence was found to be lower among women (β = −3.57, p = 0.034) and positively associated with life satisfaction (β = 0.31, p = 0.003). OSA-value was not significantly predicted by any variable. Research limitations/implications The cross-sectional design limits causal inference, and factors like economic hardship or discrimination were not included. Practical implications Therapeutic and community interventions should not only address performance but also support activities that individuals value and wish to regain. Social implications The findings highlight the need for a holistic approach that considers cultural context and social participation. Originality/value This study adds to the limited research on refugees’ well-being and underscores the importance of competence and value in shaping life satisfaction.