From Suppression to Autonomy: Evolving Family Roles of Refugee Mothers Post-Displacement

This paper explores the complex and evolving familial dynamics of Syrian refugee mothers in Germany, highlighting their journeys toward resilience and autonomy post-displacement. Refugee mothers face significant challenges, from language barriers and social isolation to the overwhelming responsibility of maintaining family unity. This paper, based on the experiences of nine mothers, delves deeply into their struggles, resilience, and identity reconstruction in the face of profound social changes. The study contrasts two groups: mothers who embraced their newfound autonomy, often leading to divorce, and those who clung to traditional roles, resulting in family isolation and internal conflict.

In the first part, the paper examines the stories of women who gained independence after years of suppression, leading to a rupture in marital relationships as they navigated new societal roles. This section highlights the implications of these changes on family power dynamics and the breakdown of traditional family structures. The second part focuses on conservative mothers who struggled to maintain control over their lives and their children, revealing the deep rift between mothers and children as the latter assimilated into a new culture.

By analyzing the daily confrontations between mothers and their husbands and children, the chapter offers a comprehensive understanding of the shifting familial dynamics within Syrian refugee families in Germany. This dual approach provides a detailed picture of the challenges and complexities faced by these families, contributing to a holistic understanding of how displacement and cultural adaptation reshape family life.