The Effectiveness of the Gestalt Program on the Psychological and Social Well-Being of Syrian Refugee Women at Al-Zaatari Camp
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/ijhss.3344Keywords:
: Gestalt-Based Counseling Program, Social Well-Being, Psychological Well-Being, Gestalt therapyAbstract
Purpose: The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a Gestalt-based counseling program in improving the psychological and social well-being of Syrian refugee women residing in Al-Zaatari camp. The study adopted a quasi-experimental design to assess whether participation in the program would lead to significant improvements across dimensions of well-being compared to a control group.
Methodology: The methodology involved a sample of 36 Syrian refugee women, randomly assigned to an experimental group (n=18), which received a 12-session Gestalt counseling program, and a control group (n=18), which received no intervention. The Ryff Psychological and Social Well-Being Scale, validated and adapted for the study, was administered before and after the intervention. Data was analyzed using MANCOVA to control for pretest differences.
Findings: Findings revealed statistically significant improvements in all dimensions of psychological and social well-being among women in the experimental group, with large effect sizes (Eta² ranging from .667 to .954). The results demonstrate the strong positive impact of the Gestalt program on enhancing self-control, personal growth, environmental mastery, relationships, purpose in life, and self-acceptance.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study contributes uniquely to theory by extending the application of Gestalt therapy to refugee populations in humanitarian settings. Practically, it offers an evidence-based model for psychosocial interventions targeting refugee women. At the policy level, the study recommends wider integration of Gestalt-based programs into refugee support services and the establishment of specialized mental health centers within camps to address psychological and emotional needs.
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