Table 3.

Family Coping Mechanisms

Realms of Family Life	Family Coping Mechanisms – themes
Flexible and Reciprocal Family Organization	- Family solidarity and support - Women’s empowerment is welcomed - Mothers set a positive emotional tone - Spouses share and support one another
Hopeful Family Beliefs and Communication	- It is God’s will and test for us - Hoping that children will have a better life - Praying and the Koran bring strength and relaxation - Having a positive and optimistic attitude
Making the Best of Living in a New Country	- Families maintain contacts with family members in Syria and Europe using the Internet - Families send money to Syria - Families use Arabic language with younger kids - Families plan for reunification
Staying Connected with Family in Syria and in Exile	- Families share good times together in Istanbul - Getting support from Syrian friends and neighbors - Feeling at home in Turkey because it is close to our culture - Parent going to school and talking with teachers - Not letting discrimination get them down