Great expectations: The experience of recently resettled refugees in central North Carolina

Background: Refugees often have unrealistic expectations about life in the US and are disappointed when they discover the realities of their post-migration situations. The disconnect between actual living conditions and expectations may result in increased stress that can exacerbate prior or contribute to nascent mental health conditions. This community-based participatory research project sought to retrospectively chronicle the pre-migration expectations held by recently resettled refugees about life in the US prior to arrival and compare these expectations to current situations. Methods: French-speaking African refugees were interviewed (n = 10) in spring 2010, using a participant list provided by a resettlement agency. Snowball sampling was utilized after initial contact with individuals on the list. Eligible participants lived in the US for three years or less, spoke French, and were at least 21 years old. Interviews were translated in real time and audio-recordings transcribed verbatim. Results: Findings confirmed a discrepancy between expectations and current situations. Pre-migration expectations included immediate employment opportunities in their profession, time to learn English, and the provision of ample sized housing in safe neighborhoods. The current situation included high rates of unemployment and underemployment, language barriers, housing dissatisfaction, and neighborhood safety concerns, among others. The expectations maintained did not align with current living conditions and high levels of stress were indicated. Discussion: The stress associated with the discrepancy between expectations and reality can aggravate mental health conditions magnifying the susceptibility of this already vulnerable population. Recommendations to address pre-migratory expectations in post-migration settings will be discussed.