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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Self Cartography : migration process and narrative of the psychological suffering of people in a migration situation

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Introduction This research aims to experiment a methodological protocol called «Self Cartography» with people in migration situations. By combining the life story and the geographical map, this device is a response to the clinical challenges imposed by current global migratory movements. With people of different origins, cultures and sometimes languages, it is a question of developing a method capable of capturing sufferings of another type, called «globalised», which define the migratory processes of persons in exile. Method The study was carried out in two steps: 1) An exploratory phase (N = 5) to test the Self Cartography and identify the first clinical potentials and methodological biases that needed to be modulated before the second phase of the study. 2) A second phase of research (N = 10) to confirm initial exploratory findings. Each protocol was conducted in six meetings. As is the case in the example of the projective tests used in clinical psychology, a cartographic support of the world was proposed to the participants as a tool to assist and project their migratory narrative. Specific instructions have been issued to guide the elaboration and apprehend the psychic dynamics involved in the migratory process. The stories collected were transcribed and qualitatively analysed through case studies and thematic analysis using the Nvivo® 11 software. Results The exploratory phase showed the reflexive and projective character of the cartographic support. The map and the instructions, used to structure the narrative, have facilitated the recollection of the migratory process, thereby giving access to the expression of suffering called «globalised». Some adjustments to the instructions could be made after these initial analyses. The second phase of research confirmed the clinical potential of Self Cartography through the thematic analysis of migratory narratives from which emerge specific sufferings revealed by this device. The case studies highlighted unique transfero-counter-transferential dynamics, underpinned by the presence of the mapped world. Conclusion The Self Cartography proves to be a device which facilitates the recollection, the narration, and the putting in sense of the experience of exile. These potentialities can prevent the risks of developing psychotraumatisms, depression, and/or anxiety syndrome by simultaneously encouraging resilience processes. Further research would enable to strengthen the validation of this methodological protocol as a mechanism for evaluation and clinical support for people in migration situations.