Paper short abstract:

The primary goal of this paper is to describe the methodological challenges in conducting cross-cultural research with refugees. It draws on insights derived from a study that explored perceptions, help-seeking and provisions for psychological distress among Eritrean refugees residing in Israel.

Paper long abstract:

The primary objective of this paper is to describe the methodological challenges in conducting cross-cultural research with refugees and to offer possible solutions and guidelines for addressing these issues. To illustrate the points being made this paper draws on insights derived from an exploratory mental health study that explored perceptions, help-seeking and provisions for psychological distress among the Eritrean refugee community residing in Israel.

Three primary topics are addressed: (1) Challenges and dilemmas in the translation and adaptation of psychological scales that were developed in North-American contexts (specifically the GHQ-12). In line with arguments made by Kleinman (1987) in this section I demonstrate that translation in cross-cultural research is not a technical-problem, as it is often rendered in medical and psychological scholarship, but rather a highly nuanced and complex task that greatly influences the validity of cross cultural findings; (2) Negotiating entry and gaining authentic access. In this section I highlight the advantages of adopting a critical approach and making explicit one’s political position when conducting research with refugees who have often experienced tremendous institutional oppression and are therefore extremely cautious of disclosing their personal experiences and inner worlds; (3) Ethical considerations and concerns. Finally, I discuss the need to explore meaningful ways to engage refugee participants in research and ensure they fully understand research activities, aims and concepts such as confidentially and consent. I conclude with a discussion of promising approaches and lessons learned.