THE EXAMINATION OF THE FACTORS EFFECTING PHYSICAL HEALTH PERCEPTION OF SYRIAN ASYLUM SEEKERS

Introduction: This research aims to determine Syrian asylum seekers’ physical health perceptions’ and also aims to assess if their perception differ in terms of socio-demographic features (gender, age, marital stasus, education level, monthly income). Methods: The universe of the research is consist of all Syrians who are able to speak in Turkish and 18 age and over. The research data gathered by the researchers on 413 participants between the dates 2 April- 7 May 2018. To assess the physical health perceptions of participants “Physical Health Scale” which is consisted of 14 statements and 4 dimensions and developed by Schat et al. (2005) is used. SPSS 21.0 is used to analyze the data. Results: According to results of the study, it was determined that the Syrians obtained the highest score from headache dimension and the lowest score from gastrointestinal problems. In addition, while there were significant differences in the sleep disturbances, headaches, and gastrointestinal problem subscales according to the gender of participants in the study, significant differences were found only in the sub-dimension of respiratory infections according to their age. Conclusion: In order to improve the physical health perceptions and health conditions of Syrian asylum seekers; it is considered appropriate to provide that general and health literacy trainings for asylum seekers by professionals working in the field of physical health such as doctors and nurses