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Perspectives on the Meanings of Symptoms among Cambodian Refugees

Stevens Social Research Adelaide

Environmental stressors place refugees at risk of mental ill health and this article examines the meaning of selected symptoms such as sleeping problems, nightmares, breathing problems, pain, headaches, dizziness, fatigue and lethargy, trouble with concentration and memory loss among a random sample of 150 male and female Cambodians aged 20 to 75 years in South Australia. Respondents were interviewed in their own homes by the author, accompanied by a Cambodia-born research assistant who interpreted where necessary. The interview schedule used was devised in collaboration with a Cambodia-born advisory committee. Understanding of the meaning of the symptoms experienced was explored through two main approaches. First, analysis of their social, demographic and health correlates provided an objective view of those who suffer. This revealed that older people, individuals with large families and those who lacked the support of a spouse were more likely than others to experience the symptoms, while young single people who reported they were in good health were least likely to experience symptoms. Second, respondents’ ideas on the causes of their symptoms provided subjective insights into the meaning for those who suffer. Current stressors predominated in the accounts given of causes by the Cambodians themselves, with family relationships and medical problems the most common factors.

Key Words: family relationships • health • mental health • stress • trauma • well-being

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