Abstract
Limited data is available on the challenges and level of difficulty Syrian refugee parents face in their transition to life in Canada. This study assesses the difficulty Syrian refugee parents in Canada face during the transition process and identify factors associated with these challenges. This cross-sectional study included Syrian refugee parents, with at least one child under 18 years of age, who resettled in Canada after 2015 and resided in Ontario, Canada. Participants were recruited between March 3, 2021, and March 31, 2022. A total of 540 participants were enrolled. The primary dependent variable, transition difficulty, was assessed through the question, “How difficult has the transition into Canada been for you?” with responses on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (not difficult at all) to 5 (very difficult). Multiple linear regression was used to examine the independent relationship between a range of sociodemographic and migration related factors and transition difficulty. Of the participants, 13.7% reported the transition as ‘very difficult,’ and 43% described it as ‘difficult.’ Factors significantly associated with greater difficulty in transition included being sponsored through the Blended Visa Office-Referred (BVOR) program in comparison to government sponsorship, parents’ perceived discrimination at children’s schools, dissatisfaction with friendships, and longer duration of residence in Canada. In contrast, the ability to speak English or French was significantly associated with lower difficulty in transitioning. Syrian refugee parents face significant challenges during their transition to life in Canada highlighting the need for targeted support services.
Details
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KEYWORDS
Syrian, Refugees, Canada, Transition
