The assessment of asylum seeking immigrants to the United States: an exploratory study of psychologists' experiences

The use of psychological assessments as evidence has become a frequent part of the asylum determination process in the United States. This exploratory, qualitative study focused on the personal and professional experiences of psychologists who provide these assessments. First the political, legal, and social situation of asylum seekers to the United is discussed. Then the mental health challenges that asylum seekers commonly experience are reviewed. Finally, parameters of the assessment process and common challenges are highlighted. Six psychologists with experience assessing asylum seekers were asked about their experiences providing these assessments and training for the work, and their responses were analyzed qualitatively for common categories and themes. Several major categories of experiences arose in participants’ answers. They discussed a) the location of assessment experiences, b) experiences working with interpreters, c) assessing for trauma and PTSD, d) the use of psychological measures, e) writing the assessments, f) experiences with the asylum system and process, g) adapting to cultural differences, h) personal and professional impact of this work, i) professional dilemmas, j) methods of self-care and coping, and k) training experiences. Across these categories, the tension between social advocacy and clinical integrity, and the cultural challenges to usual professional praxis arose as salient themes. Finally, the limitations and implications of the current study are addressed.Psy.D.Includes bibliographical referencesby Patrick J. Cheatha