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Needs of Newcomer Youth

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Abstract

The journey following migration for adolescent youth can consist of psychosocial and sociocultural difficulties with acculturating and integrating into the new host society. The family unit, however, has been identified to be a source of strength and wellbeing for youth during the integration process. This study explores factors that are suggested to make the home environment more supportive after migration. Newcomer youth between 15 and 18 years of age within a medium-sized Canadian city, living in Canada for no more than 2 years were interviewed in a group setting. Mixed methods were utilized and collected data was analyzed using concept mapping. Participants stated wanting more positive feedback from and increased communication with parents, in addition to having a home that is more open and welcoming to friends. The needs of youth can be sourced in the effects of the migrant journey and acculturation process. By improving the degrees of understanding, warmth, communication and cultural integration in the home, youth and their families can develop a greater sense of cohesion which can assist with supporting their migrant experience. Implications for practitioners working with newcomer youth and their families are provided, in addition to research and policy-related implications.

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Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful for the financial support of this research through a grant provided by the Welcoming Communities Initiative.

Funding

This study was funded by Welcoming Communities Initiative.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, University of Alberta, 6-102 Education North, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2G5, Canada

    Mikaela Burgos

  2. South London Neighbourhood Resource Centre, London, ON, Canada

    Mohamed Al-Adeimi

  3. Western University, London, ON, Canada

    Jason Brown

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  1. Mikaela Burgos
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  2. Mohamed Al-Adeimi
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Correspondence to Mikaela Burgos.

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Mikaela Burgos, Mohamed Al-Adeimi, and Jason Brown declares that they have no conflict of interest.

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Burgos, M., Al-Adeimi, M. & Brown, J. Needs of Newcomer Youth. Child Adolesc Soc Work J 36, 429–437 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10560-018-0571-3

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