Comparing refugees and nonrefugees: the Bosnian experience

The Bosnian War (1992-1995) led to millions of Bosnians being either internally displaced or seeking refuge in other countries. The present study compares the mental health status of refugees with people who were internally displaced. Questionnaires examining wartime experiences, traumatic symptoms and personality were administered to 190 Bosnians (69 refugees and 121 internally displaced). Refugees scored significantly higher on traumatic symptoms. Traumatic symptoms are related to harm avoidant personality traits. Certain war experiences were also associated with greater symptomatology. The findings show that there may be more serious longer-term psychological problems in people who are forced to leave their country during wartime. This may be linked to personality. There are social, political, and treatment implications of these findings.