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

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.