The experience of meaning and value in occupations for forced migrants seeking asylum, and factors that facilitate occupational engagement: A meta-ethnography using a strength-based approach.

Introduction: Asylum-seekers face significant barriers to meaningful
occupation, leading to negative health and wellbeing outcomes. This
study provides a strength-based approach to enhance understandings
about the meaning of occupation for those seeking asylum.
Method: A systematic search of the literature identified seven qualitative
research studies. A meta-ethnographic approach was used to synthesise
the findings.
Results: Examination of the selected studies generated three third-order
interpretations as follows: keeping busy as a coping mechanism;
maintaining continuity with past life by preserving identity, roles, values,
and culture; and building a new future with a drive to be a productive
member of society. The study also identified factors that support
meaningful occupational engagement during asylum.
Conclusion: This study shows that occupations are essential to existence
for asylum-seekers. They help preserve identity and life-continuity; help
people make sense of disorder in their life; and provide opportunity for
reflection, leading to motivation toward goal-directed occupation. Finally,
engaging in occupation helps people adjust and cope with trauma. The
study highlights that a lack of meaningful occupations may limit the
long-term benefits of occupational engagement while seeking asylum.
Recommendations are made for further research to challenge restrictive
policies and promote the rights and wellbeing of this population.