Mediated communication and refugee resilience: A social psychological model

Abstract

The global refugee crisis, exacerbated by Russian aggression in Ukraine, has been caused by an unprecedented migration of millions of people fleeing wars, conflicts, and persecution. In this context, social psychologists are paying increasing attention to the role of mediated communication in promoting resilience among refugees. This paper explores how mediated communication can promote resilience, drawing on theories of social psychology and empirical research. An overview is provided of the global refugee crisis and the challenges faced by refugees, including those affected by ongoing wars. The concept of resilience and its importance for refugees is presented, and the role of social support, coping strategies, and positive emotions are discussed in fostering this vital quality. The role of mediated communication and its main feature was analysed, which can substantially prevent mental health problems. Mediated communication is considered a powerful tool for promoting refugee resilience, highlighting its ability to provide access to social support networks, promote connection and belonging, and facilitate access to information and resources. Understanding the cultural and social contexts in which refugees use mediated communication, including issues of gender, age, and cultural norms, is crucial for effective intervention. It is concluded that interventions can address the unique challenges faced by refugees, such as displacement, war trauma, and social isolation, including the specific needs of Ukrainian refugees from different cultural and linguistic traditions. Potential challenges and limitations of mediated communication in promoting resilience among refugees, such as issues of confidentiality and security, social isolation, and misinformation, are also discussed. Future research perspectives include empirically testing the conceptual model of the mediated communication potential of refugee resilience and developing scientifically based recommendations for future psychosocial interventions and mental health promotion