Creative expression and mental well being of Syrian refugee children living outside of settlement camps in Istanbul

The present study will examine the influence creative expression can play on the mental well being of Syrian refugee children living outside of settlement camps in Istanbul. Drawing and storytelling activities are purposed to work as psychological first aid for refugee children to nurse from their trauma. Our main objectives will be to provide space and tools to allow children relate to their refugee experience, encourage interaction and cohesion among children and use the results to reflect on the role of community based interventions for the mental well being of refugee children in transitioning and unsettled situations. At the end of this project, we hope to provide results that will lead future research with comprehensive community based strategies and help participating children with their healing process

Faculty Supervisor:

Cecile Rousseau

Student:

Partner:

Marmara University

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

University:

McGill University

Program:

Globalink Research Award