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11 - Children, families, and young people

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 August 2022

By
Veronika Dobler  and
Julia Nelki
Edited by
Chris Maloney ,
Julia Nelki  and
Alison Summers
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Summary

Children are more vulnerable than adults but have greater adaptive potential. They need thinking about in the context of their families and communities even if separated from them. Effects of adversity vary according to the developmental stage at which they occur, and subsequent development can also be compromised. Key developmental stages are considered, attending to what harms can be sustained, and what may be protective.

Post-migration factors affecting outcome are also reviewed, including poor housing, poverty, bullying, racism, isolation, and prolonged uncertainty.

Intervention requires building a relationship and a network of support, and possibly sequential episodes of care with incremental and ‘portable’ gains: meeting basic needs first by attending to accommodation, safety, links with schools and language skills. Age-appropriate explanations are essential.Some specific interventions are reviewed.

The chapter concludes by revisiting the need for support and protection, and understanding developmental needs and family dynamics.This can promote healthy development and reduce intergenerational transmission of trauma.

Keywords

needsvulnerabilityadaptive potentialdevelopmental stagepovertybullyingracismuncertaintyfamiliesperinatal health
Type
Chapter
Information
Seeking Asylum and Mental Health
A Practical Guide for Professionals
 , pp. 207 - 229
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2022

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