Social Work Practice With Forced Migrants: Trauma-Informed Resilience Perspective

Publication Date

1-21-2026

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Routledge Handbook of Social Work and Migration Theory Practice Education and Research

DOI

10.4324/9781032692272-16

First Page

205

Last Page

220

Abstract

This chapter explores social work practice through a trauma-informed resilience perspective, employing the resilience-enhancing stress model (RESM) developed by Dr. Greene to illustrate effective approaches in working with forced migrants worldwide. The chapter advocates for an expanded set of goals for social work practitioners and policy makers throughout the resettlement process. The described practices draw insights from global perspectives, including those in the United States, Mexico, Central and South America, Iceland, Germany, Switzerland, Greece, Spain, Israel, Syria, Southeast Asia, and others. Commencing with a clear definition of forced migration and its distinction from migration or immigration, the chapter proceeds to provide a brief overview of how different countries comprehend and manage the influx of forced migrants. The majority of the chapter is dedicated to examining the various issues, challenges, and factors that forced migrants encounter during resettlement, emphasizing how social workers can enhance their effectiveness in supporting individuals and families through this transitional phase.

Department

Social Work

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