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Published on: July 10, 2017
Mental health problems in separated refugee adolescents
Ilse Derluyn1, Cindy Mels, Eric Broekaert
1Department of Orthopedagogics, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium. Ilse.Derluyn@UGent.be
Summary
Separated refugee adolescents face higher risks of trauma and mental health issues compared to accompanied peers. Parental presence is crucial for mitigating these risks during migration.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Psychology
- Migration Studies
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Parental separation is a known risk factor for adolescent mental health.
- Refugee adolescents face unique challenges during migration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare mental health problems in separated versus accompanied refugee adolescents in Belgium.
- To identify risk factors for mental health issues in this population.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 1294 adolescents using self-report questionnaires.
- Assessed traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress.
- Included 10% refugee adolescents separated from both parents.
Main Results:
- Separated refugee adolescents reported more traumatic events.
- Separation, trauma exposure, and gender are risk factors for mental health problems.
- Adolescents living with mothers had fewer mental health issues than those with fathers, despite more trauma.
Conclusions:
- Parental availability is vital for refugee adolescents navigating migration.
- Separated adolescents are more vulnerable to trauma and severe mental health problems.
- Enhanced support and policy changes are needed for separated refugee minors.
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