Needs of Newcomer Youth
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Needs of Newcomer Youth Mikaela Burgos1 · Mohamed Al‑Adeimi2 · Jason Brown3
© Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2018
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. Keywords Family factors · Newcomer families · Newcomer adolescents · Support-promoting factors Migrants are often exposed to various cultures when arriving to a host country. By interacting with diverse cultures, an individual undergoes an acculturation process in which one’s beliefs, customs, behaviours and identity are altered (Berry, Phinney, Sam, & Vedder, 2006; Williams & Berry, 1991). During this interaction, one’s multidimensional sense of self can be influenced and can impact an individual’s psychological and sociocultural adaptation (Berry et al., 2006; Dion & Dion, 2001; Su & Costigan, 2009). Acquiring a balance in values and customs between one’s heritage and the culture of the host country can lead to healthy psychosocial adaptation; however, when there is an imbalance, acculturative stress can negatively impact one’s psychosocial wellbeing (Berry et al., 2006; McKenney, Pepler, Craig, & Connolly, 2006; Vega, Zimmerman, Gil, Warheit, & Apospori, 1993). * Mikaela Burgos [email protected] 1
Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, University of Alberta, 6‑102 Education North, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G5, Canada
2
South London Neighbourhood Resource Centre, London, ON, Canada
3
Western University, London, ON, Canada
Acculturative stress can often result from difficulties integrating new societal systems, norms, values, and customs in an adaptive and balanced way. Integration challenges can lead to inter and intrapersonal concerns, including difficulties with self-esteem, perceived discrimination, and psychosocial stress, such as depressive, anxi
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