Determining family relations through drawing: Family relations in images drawn by immigrant children

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of the study was to evaluate family relations of immigrant children with the drawing method. Design and methodsThe sample, which was carried out using the visual phenomenology method, consisted of 60 immigrant children between the ages of 4–14. The data were collected by face-to-face interviews with the children and family, using the Family Information Form and the Family Drawing Test. The data obtained from the drawings were analyzed with the MAXQDA 2022 program. ResultsThe pictures drawn by the children were examined and 3 themes (Chaos, Necessity, Development) and 9 sub-themes (Interpersonal Relations, Thoughts about Future, Violence, Authority, Emotional State, Communication, Needs and Desires, Role Modeling, Personality) were formed. ConclusionsIt was determined that the family relations of immigrant children were adversely affected, children had conflicts with family members, were exposed to violence, felt many emotions, such as fear, anxiety, loneliness, anger, longing, exclusion, and needed communication, attention, and support. Implication to practiceIt is thought that nurses could use the picture analysis method to understand the feelings and thoughts of children.