Understanding the role of acculturative stress on refugee youth mental health: A systematic review and ecological approach to assessment and intervention

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Abstract

In this article, we conduct a systematic review of the extant literature on the risk and protective factors that impact the healthy resettlement of refugee children around the world. We identify acculturative stress as a main risk factor to consider for assessment and intervention given that is often overlooked in the literature for refugee children, but has been found to strongly impact their socio-emotional development. In addition, we discuss ecologically framed/culturally responsive interventions and assessment practices that could aid in the successful resettlement of refugee children. We also discuss the limitations of the extant research on refugee children and make recommendations for future research directions.

Citation

Relevant Evidence Summaries

The evidence was reviewed and included in the following summaries: 

How do family interventions impact functioning of newcomer household dynamics?

One strong source of evidence and several smaller moderate and suggestive studies show that interventions on intergenerational relationships can help decrease negative mental health symptoms and increase positive parenting practices. Multiple studies reported significant improvements in the overall mental health of both child and caregiver participants. Caregivers reported high levels of satisfaction with several different…

About this study

AGE: Adolescents and/or Youth

DIRECTION OF EVIDENCE: No evidence about impact

FULL TEXT AVAILABILITY: Paid

HOST COUNTRY: Multiple countries

POPULATION: Refugees

STRENGTH OF EVIDENCE: No evidence about impact

TYPE OF STUDY: Systematic review

YEAR PUBLISHED: 2019

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