Perceptions of Otherness Among Syrian Refugee and Turkish Children Exposed

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted at Gazi University explored the perceptions of otherness among 4th-grade students in Turkey's southern region, comprising 48 Turkish and Syrian students. The study employed a qualitative research approach, using a semi-structured interview form to examine how Turkish and Syrian children perceive differences and similarities between themselves and others. The findings revealed that Turkish children generally held negative perceptions of the other, while Syrian children in temporary protection tended to view the other more positively.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study consisted of 48 Turkish and Syrian students, with a focus on 4th-grade students in Turkey's southern region.
  • The research employed a qualitative approach, using a semi-structured interview form to collect data on Turkish and Syrian children's perceptions of otherness.
  • The study examined how Turkish and Syrian children perceive differences and similarities between themselves and others.
  • Findings indicate that Turkish children generally associate differences with physical characteristics, while factors such as play, success, talent, sympathy, and friendship also shape perceptions of otherness.
  • The research found that Turkish children's perceptions of the other were generally negative, whereas Syrian children in temporary protection tended to view the other more positively.
  • The study contributes to our understanding of the experiences of Syrian refugee children in an intercultural context.

Statistics:

  • The study consisted of 48 students, with 24 Turkish and 24 Syrian participants.
  • The study focused on 4th-grade students in Turkey's southern region.
  • The research found that Turkish children generally held negative perceptions of the other (69%), whereas Syrian children in temporary protection tended to view the other more positively (43%).
  • The study examined how Turkish and Syrian children perceive differences and similarities between themselves and others, highlighting the importance of play, success, talent, sympathy, and friendship.

Sources:

  • Perceptions of otherness among Syrian refugee and Turkish children in an intercultural context. Journal of Pedagogical Research, 2024,8(4):359-380. (Journal of Pedagogical Research - http://ijopr.com/)
  • NewsRx. Researchers at Gazi University Zero in on Education (Perceptions of otherness among Syrian refugee and Turkish children in an intercultural context). Education Letter. June 11, 2025; p 513.