Basic psychological needs satisfaction and psychological well-being of refugees in Africa

Abstract

Using a qualitative approach, this study sought to identify the factors that influence the psychological well-being or frustration of refugees to Uganda (mainly from South Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo [DRC], Rwanda and other nearby countries) and Ugandan nationals (as host community). Data were collected through nine focus group discussions with 54 participants. The interview guide asked questions about issues that frustrated or encouraged their psychological well-being and the ways they would describe their current psychological well-being. After conducting thematic analysis, 10 themes emerged that contribute to refugee and host community psychological well-being or frustration: food availability, family separation and death, good security in the refugee camp, provision of health services, access to free education, the role of mental health and psychosocial support, unfavourable farmland, availability of employment and income-generating activities, collaboration and peer support, and delayed resettlement within or outside Uganda. Based on participant responses, several recommendations emerge to guide community-based psychological interventions, which may increase the psychological well-being of refugees and host community members. Conclusions show the negative and positive factors that contribute to the psychological well-being or frustration of both refugees and Ugandans.