Exploring the state of gender-centered health research in the context of refugee resettlement in Canada: A scoping review
Date
2020
Authors
Zivot, Chloe
Dewey, Cate
Heasley, Cole
Srinivasan, Sharada
Little, Matthew
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Abstract
Interdisciplinary health research that investigates gender as a relational process is necessary
to facilitate a safe and healthy resettlement process for refugees in Canada. This scoping review
explores the range, nature, and extent of published research examining gender in relation to refugee
health during resettlement in Canada. An initial search of six databases yielded 7325 articles published
before June 2019. A total of 34 articles published between 1988 and 2019 were included for in-depth
review. Articles meeting inclusion criteria primarily focused on refugee women. Categories of focus
included maternal health, social and emotional health, health impacts of sexual and gender-based
violence and torture, access to health and social services, decision-making and health-seeking behavior,
mental health, and sexual and reproductive health. Our thematic analysis identified connections
between gender roles, expectations, ideals, and health through interactions and lived experiences
within the family, community, and healthcare system. Review findings suggest that many refugee
women are influenced by pervasive gender roles and expectations as well as exposed to gendered
health systems and practices that may pose risks to health, particularly mental health and access
to services. Further efforts should be made to understand processes and experiences of resilience
and community building in countering negative impacts of gendered beliefs and practices on health
during resettlement.
Description
Keywords
women's health, refugee resettlement, gender, public health, family health, global health, forced migration
Citation
Zivot, C., Dewey, C., Heasley, C., Srinivasan, S., & Little, M. (2020). “Exploring the state of gender-centered health research in the context of refugee resettlement in Canada: A scoping review.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(20), 7511. https://doi.org/10.3390/17207511