A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
Exploring lived experiences and perceptions of well-being: insights from forced migrant women in Finland; 
Authors: Golamrej Eliasi, Laleh; Zahan, Sohana; Anis, Merja
Publisher: Taylor & Francis
Publication year: 2026
Journal: Nordic Social Work Research
ISSN: 2156-857X
eISSN: 2156-8588
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/2156857X.2026.2671050
Publication's open availability at the time of reporting: Open Access
Publication channel's open availability : Open Access publication channel
Web address : https://doi.org/10.1080/2156857X.2026.2671050
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/523652707
Self-archived copy's licence: CC BY NC ND
Self-archived copy's version: Publisher`s PDF
Immigrant women are often perceived as vulnerable and socially isolated, with their viewpoints and experiences often overlooked in academic research. This study prioritizes their perspectives and lived experiences, focusing on the well-being of forced migrant families and children. This research examines both the risk factors threatening the well-being of forced migrant families and children and the coping strategies employed to address these challenges. Drawing from two interlinked qualitative studies, data were collected through semi-structured interviews and ethnographic observations with forced migrant women in Finland. Thematic analysis of the data revealed four themes and ten sub-themes. For risk factors, two main themes emerged: pre-migration stressors and post-migration challenges. Regarding coping strategies, two primary themes were identified: individual solutions and close relationships, and structural adaptation and resource navigation. These findings illuminate the complex interplay of personal resilience, community dynamics, and structural support systems in shaping the well-being of forced migrant families. This research contributes to an understanding of the lived experiences and perceptions of forced migrant women in Finland, emphasizing the importance of incorporating their voices into policy-making and social work practices. It highlights the need for targeted interventions to address their unique challenges and strengths, ultimately promoting more effective support systems for migrant families.
Keywords:
Asylum seekers, coping strategies/methods, Finland, forced migration, immigrant women
Downloadable publication This is an electronic reprint of the original article. |
Funding information in the publication:
This study is a sub-study of a larger research project “Child welfare expertise in social work for immigrant children and families” (LAMPE 2021-2023) funded by Finnish Ministry of Social Affairs and Health. Besides, the second research was supported by Alli Paasikivi foundation, and Oskar Öflunds Stiftelse.