The Reconstruction of Family Identity through Food Consumption- The Case of Displaced Syrian Women in Jordan

摘要

The objective of this research is to address the role of food consumption on the reconstruction of family identity using the case of displaced Syrian women in Jordan after the Syrian conflict in 2011. This paper used qualitative research method. Nine in-depth individual interviews were employed to collect data. Besides, a focus group was conducted to validate the data collection process. A conceptual framework that explains the relationship between food consumption and family identity was devised using interpretive phenomenological analysis. The findings of this study show that the reconstruction of family identity is underpinned by communal food preparation, valuing traditional food and economic decision-making. Moreover, the study reveals that the coping strategies adopted by Syrian women refugees include religious celebrations, food storage and social networks. The study recommends to expand research to include different target groups in other regions. The originality of this research stems from the fact that this study sheds light on the linkages between food consumption and family identity among Syrian women refugees in Jordan using interpretive phenomenological research.