A Scoping Review of the Role of Sensory and Narrative Processes in the Wellbeing and Belonging of Young Refugees

Gilleard,Anna; Marino,Luise V.; Smith,Tracey; Turgoose,David

A Scoping Review of the Role of Sensory and Narrative Processes in the Wellbeing and Belonging of Young Refugees

All Authors

Gilleard,Anna

Marino,Luise V.

Smith,Tracey

Turgoose,David

LTHT Author

Gilleard, Anna

LTHT Department

Clinical & Health Psychology

Non Medic

Clinical Psychologist

Publication Date

2025

Item Type

Article

Abstract

Previous research has highlighted the potential value of narrative therapeutic approaches and multisensory engagement with child and adolescent refugees. A scoping review was conducted to explore the role of narrative and sensory processes in young refugees' sense of belonging, social integration and wellbeing. Database searching identified 307 records, of which 15 were included in the final review. Thematic analysis of the synthesised data found 11 sub-themes and 4 overarching themes relating to the ways in which narrative and sensory approaches support refugee wellbeing and belonging: (1) positive and reparative social connections, (2) connections to cultural identity, (3) wellbeing and communication, and (4) youth empowerment. Narrative and sensory approaches may promote wellbeing, identity development and positive connections to new host cultures and communities for refugee youth and so may be usefully integrated into future therapeutic interventions across clinical, educational and social care settings. Future research should explore the individual experience of child identity and belonging, specifically amongst younger refugee groups. Highlights: Sensory and narrative approaches are of therapeutic benefit to refugee youth. Young refugees engage in sensory and narrative processes as part of everyday social interactions in a way that appears to foster connections to past and present cultures and communities. These processes may be successfully embedded into supportive interventions to support refugee wellbeing, belonging, identity, and positive social connections.