The Critical Role of Mothers in Refugee Children’s Mental Health

Background

Understanding the mental health challenges faced by Syrian refugee children

Many Syrian refugee children experience significant exposure to war. This puts them at high risk for mental health problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. The instability and lack of resources during displacement further exacerbates this vulnerability for psychopathology, making mental health support critical. Living in overcrowded and often unsanitary conditions, these children face daily stressors that can severely impact their mental health. The lack of educational and recreational opportunities further adds to their sense of uncertainty and hopelessness. 

 

What were the aims of this study?

Exploring the impact of maternal mental health on Syrian refugee children

This study aimed to investigate the role of mothers regarding children’s mental health in refugee camps. It sought to understand the direct and indirect pathways through which the refugee environment impacts child mental health via mothers’ psychological well-being and parenting practices. Specifically, the research focused on identifying how environmental stressors, such as lack of resources and security, translate into psychological distress for mothers and subsequently affect their children through the parenting provided by mothers. 

 

How was this study carried out?

A comprehensive study involving 1,446 Syrian refugee mothers and their children aged 9 to 14 years

Researchers used structural equation modelling to analyse data from questionnaires assessing maternal mental health, parenting practices, and child mental health. This method allows to capture the intricate dynamics of family life in refugee settings. Mothers were asked about their experiences of stress, depression, and anxiety, their parenting behaviours and practices, as well as the quality of the refugee camp environment during displacement. Children were assessed regarding their mental health, providing a clear picture of how maternal well-being impacts child outcomes.

 

What were the key findings?

Revealing the pivotal influence of mothers on their children’s mental health

The study found that maternal mental health influences the quality of their parenting which, in turn, affects the child’s mental health. For example, mothers reporting more mental health problems engaged more in negative parenting practices such as being harsh. This was associated with a higher risk for PTSD and depression in children.

Conversely, maternal mental health problems were also associated with less supportive and warm parenting practices which predicted fewer psychological issues in children. This highlights the importance of good maternal mental health and supportive parenting for the child’s mental health.

Importantly, it was also found that the quality of the wider environment affected children’s mental health, but indirectly by impacting the mother’s mental health. Consequently, the mother’s ability to provide supportive parenting. When mothers felt supported by the community and had access to resources, their mental health was better. This was associated with the provision of more supportive parenting and therefore, contributed to better child mental health.

 

What are the implications of this research?

Practical steps to support refugee families and improve mental health outcomes

This study underscores the importance of maternal mental health in shaping the mental health of Syrian refugee children. By addressing the psychological needs of mothers and improving the overall refugee environment, we can enhance the resilience and well-being of displaced families. Providing psychological support to mothers can improve their mental health, leading to better parenting practices and healthier mental states for their children.

Community-based programmes offering counselling, parenting workshops, and social support networks can be particularly effective. Additionally, policies aimed at improving living conditions in refugee camps, such as ensuring access to healthcare, education, and safe housing, are crucial for long-term mental health benefits. It is essential for aid organisations to adopt a family-centric approach, recognising that the well-being of mothers directly and indirectly influences the well-being of children. Empowering mothers with skills and support can have a transformative impact on the entire family unit, promoting resilience and psychological health.

 

About the study group

The study was conducted by a team of experts in psychology and mental health, including Dr Cassandra M. Popham (Queen Mary University of London, UK), Dr Fiona S. McEwen (Kings College London, UK), Prof Ellie Karam (IDRAAC, Saint George Hospital University Medical Center, Balamand University) and Prof Michael Pluess (University of Surrey, UK).