Representation of parental authority and the resilience of unaccompanied minors in refugee camps in East Cameroon

Abstract

This thesis explores the representation of parental authority and its influence on the resilience of unaccompanied minors in refugee camps in East Cameroon. Children who have survived conflicts and become separated from their families often face significant trauma and depression. Without the care and support of parents or guardians these unaccompanied minors are highly vulnerable. Background studies highlight the unique vulnerabilities and protection needs of unaccompanied refugee minors as well as the gaps in previous research which largely focused on assessing or intervening on resilience at the individual or environmental level. This study aims to unveil how symbolic, internal and cognitive representation of parental authority that can facilitate and enhance the resilience of unaccompanied refugee minors. Drawing from concepts from philosophy and psychology, the research investigates how the mental representations can enhance the resilience of unaccompanied minors. The study is situated within Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model to consider the multilevel factors impacting child development and resilience while also looking at Carl Jung’s personality theory, Ann Masten resilience theory and George Millers information processing theory. It argues that mental representations and symbolic meanings attached to parental authority, even in the absence of parents, can impact an unaccompanied child’s ability to overcome adversity. Through qualitative methods, the research explores the lived experiences of unaccompanied minors, examining the symbolic significance they ascribe to parental figures and authority. Data was collected through semi structured and structured interviews, observations and from other secondary sources. The data collected was analyzed using the narrative analysis approach of research analysis. The findings of this dissertation offer insights into how mental representations like religious beliefs, the ability to make one’s own decision and be autonomous (self-determination) and support from the host community (social support) can be leveraged to enhance the resilience of unaccompanied refugee minors.