Challenges of Belonging: Somali Families' Experiences with Finnish Social Services
Mohamed, Ayan Abdirizak (2024)
2024
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024051713038
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024051713038
Tiivistelmä
This thesis explores the experiences of Somali families with social services, particularly child protection in Finland, aiming to uncover the challenges they face and understand their interactions with the social service system. Grounded in qualitative research methodology, the study delves into the nuanced experiences of Somali families through semi-structured interviews.
The objective of this study was to study the experiences of Somali families navigating the Finnish social service system, shedding light on the multifaceted challenges they encounter and offering insights into their interactions with social services. Through qualitative methods, particularly semi-structured interviews, data was collected from Somali participants. These interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns.
The findings uncovered a spectrum of challenges faced by Somali families, including difficulties in accessing services and experiences of unfair treatment. Language barriers and cultural misunderstandings were found to exacerbate these challenges, emphasizing the need for culturally competent and inclusive practices within social services.
Drawing from theories of biases, cultural competence, and inclusivity, the study underscores the significance of addressing biases and implementing anti-racist approaches in social service organizations. By recognizing and challenging biases, social service providers can create more equitable and supportive environments for Somali families and other marginalized communities.
The analysis concludes with recommendations to improve cultural competence training for social workers, enhance language support services, and promote an open and trusting environment within social service organizations, thereby better meeting the needs of Somali families.
The objective of this study was to study the experiences of Somali families navigating the Finnish social service system, shedding light on the multifaceted challenges they encounter and offering insights into their interactions with social services. Through qualitative methods, particularly semi-structured interviews, data was collected from Somali participants. These interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns.
The findings uncovered a spectrum of challenges faced by Somali families, including difficulties in accessing services and experiences of unfair treatment. Language barriers and cultural misunderstandings were found to exacerbate these challenges, emphasizing the need for culturally competent and inclusive practices within social services.
Drawing from theories of biases, cultural competence, and inclusivity, the study underscores the significance of addressing biases and implementing anti-racist approaches in social service organizations. By recognizing and challenging biases, social service providers can create more equitable and supportive environments for Somali families and other marginalized communities.
The analysis concludes with recommendations to improve cultural competence training for social workers, enhance language support services, and promote an open and trusting environment within social service organizations, thereby better meeting the needs of Somali families.