Adolescent Groups for Encamped Bosnian Refugees: Some Problems and Solutions

Abstract

This article describes the experience of running support groups for adolescent Bosnian refugees. It briefly reviews some theoretical perspectives on adolescent refugee experiences and then examines the issues raised by doing this fonn of cross-cultural work in the context of a refugee camp. The article suggests that traditional approaches to group therapy may need to be adapted. Greater flexibility over boundaries is required, particularly regarding time and setting. In addition therapists working in a human rights context should be prepared to acknowledge their own subjectivities, and to allow the discussion of political and social issues within the group. It is suggested that such support groups can be of use through providing a space for the ventilation of feelings, the exploration of identity, problem-solving and particularly in the rebuilding of social ties.