Cognitive Distortions as a Predictor of Social Adaptation in Refugee in Turkey

Abstract

This study focused on examining the role of cognitive distortions as a predictor of social adaptation among refugees in Turkey. For the purpose of this study, first of all, participants who migrated to Turkey after the Syrian War were asked whether they were exposed to the situations listed in the Traumatic Events List. To collect data, “Cognitive Distortions Scale”, “Revised Sociocultural Adaptation Scale”, “Traumatic Events List” and “Demographic Information Form” were used. In addition, the extent to which the cognitive distortions of these individuals predicted their social adaptation was investigated. As a result of the hierarchical linear regression analysis, it was observed that the sub-dimensions of cognitive distortions, “seeing life as dangerous”, “helplessness” and “hopelessness” were significant predictors of adaptation. Cognitive distortions of refugees, the way they explain the events in the environment, come to the fore as a factor that prevents them from adapting to the new life. This study also offers various suggestions for future studies to increase the adaptation of refugee individuals.