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Somali refugees’ perspectives regarding FGM/C in the US

Shaunessy McNeely (University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK)
Floor Christie-de Jong (University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK)

International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care

ISSN: 1747-9894

Article publication date: 12 September 2016

517

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore perspectives of Somali refugees on female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) and potential changes in these after migration.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted in Denver, Colorado, USA, with 13 Somali refugees. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze the data.

Findings

Change of perspectives regarding the support of FGM/C were noted among all participants, with most opposing infibulations, FGM/C type III, after migration but supporting Sunna, the cutting of the clitoris, FGM/C type I. Changes were prompted by education on FGM/C and resettling resulting in an awareness that infibulation is not a religious requirement nor undergone by all women. Cultural beliefs regarding the importance of virginity, purity and honor to the family underpinning the rationale of FGM/C were prevalent and some confusion in dealing with these cultural values was found. Women reported health care providers (HCPs) not being culturally prepared for women with FGM/C.

Research limitations/implications

Despite limitations to the study, findings indicate the complex process of migration and acculturation, leaving communities with cultural values in a context where these are not accepted. More research and discussion with the Somali immigrant community is required to better understand the practice of FGM/C after immigration, and how to deal with these cultural values.

Originality/value

Findings suggest some girls may still be at risk of some types of FGM/C after migration. Public health professionals, social and immigration workers should be aware of a potential risk. HCPs should prepare for caring for women with FGM/C.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to sincerely thank the participants who so kindly shared their stories. The authors would also like to thank Dr Jane Earland for her help.

Citation

McNeely, S. and Jong, F.C.-d. (2016), "Somali refugees’ perspectives regarding FGM/C in the US", International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care, Vol. 12 No. 3, pp. 157-169. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJMHSC-09-2015-0033

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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