The Constructs of Family Wellbeing: The Experiences of Chinese Families of Asylum Seekers and Refugees (ASRs) in the U.K.

Abstract

This paper aims to determine how families, as a collective unit, perceive wellbeing and their pathways to achieve those constructs facilitated by social capital particularly bonds and bridges in the U.K. Five Chinese asylum seeking and refugee (ASR) families from the People’s Republic of China were recruited to participate in this study. By examining the different types and levels of support derived through social connections, this paper contributes to the understanding of subjective wellbeing and the unmet needs of these families. Thematic analysis and interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) were employed as part of the data analysis process. It provided insights into how these five families pursue their own wellbeing priorities and the challenges they face in host country. The roles that social connections play in achieving wellbeing, and the impact of the apparent gaps in their social networks will be discussed. The paper argue that social work educators and practitioner need to aware of such experience and incorporate them into teaching and practice to advance social justice agenda.