Reevaluating Locus of Control Among Older Karen Refugees in Long-term Resettlement: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Recent literature has applied locus of control (LOC), a psychological measure for understanding individuals' perceived control, to forcibly displaced populations. An internal LOC is generally considered beneficial for well-being in the Western context. However, the cross-cultural validity of this construct warrants further examination. This study aimed to capture the lived experiences of older Karen refugees in resettlement. Through this open-ended exploration, a narrative of subjective control emerged that diverged from Western assumptions. Notably, findings revealed that a sense of external LOC, viewed positively, was the cultural norm for this group, challenging the universality of Western LOC constructs and their presumed relationship to well-being.

Research design and methods: This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of forced displacement and long-term resettlement among ten older Karen refugees (age 55 and older) from Burma, utilizing in-depth interviews and interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results: Findings highlighted four emergent themes that underscore a divergence from the individualistic assumptions underlying the LOC construct, emphasizing an external LOC, collective orientation, familial interdependence, and community support networks.

Discussion and implications: Findings underscore a divergence from the individualistic assumptions underlying the LOC construct, emphasizing how older Karen refugees collectively navigate aging and displacement by relying on familial and communal support. This study reveals that traditional applications of the LOC construct may not fully capture the complex realities of refugees from collective cultures, suggesting the need for culturally sensitive research methodologies and culturally adapted psychometric measures and intervention strategies.