This qualitative case study is an exploration of the integration process of refugees from Middle East countries who resettle in Finland. For the purpose of this analysis, integration is conceptualized as societal participation. The quality of life aspect is examined by juxtaposing individuals' own resettlement goals and priorities with their actual level of participation in the surrounding society. Resettlers' patterns of participation indicate that there are major obstacles to be negotiated before they can attain a level of participation that is compatible with their own resettlement goals, which were articulated as employment, an opportunity to study, and maintenance of culture, including religion. The degree of discrepancy between goals and participation does not seem to be the prime determinant of subjective wellbeing, which depends rather, upon the individual's freedom of action in the resettlement situation. Indications were found of disempowerment, stressor consistency and lack of robust roles which were dysfunctional to the integration process.

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Acculturation Middle Eastern immigrants integration process Finland quality of life Refugees