Support for unaccompanied children and youth - Results from a systematic literature review
Abstract Background A systematic literature review about unaccompanied minors was done with the following focus: scientifically documented effects of supportexperiences of unaccompanied children and youth about positive and negative factors Methods 2 210 abstracts were examined. Assessment of relevance and quality and the analysis were done according to SBU standard. Results No controlled study on effects were fulfilling the inclusion criteria. However, 29 articles with qualitative design were included. Seven overall themes were identified: Security and control: a basic requirementThe new country: both opportunities and difficultiesManaging difficulties: a balance between different strategiesEveryday environments: supportive relationships as well as influence in housing and access to schools and activities are importantRelationships: support and guidance from adults is important, contact with peers important, but also difficultSocial services and health and medical care: varying views on and experiences of support and needsIdentity and affiliation: getting together the past, the present and the future. The seven themes could be grouped in three overarching levels: Basic living conditions and survivalDifficulties and opportunities in everyday lifeWeighting of bringing together existence on an overall plan Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the largest literature review about support for unaccompanied children and youth. In the absence of controlled effect studies, it is particularly important to pay attention to unaccompanied children and youths own experiences when providing guidance for how societýs support for this heterogeneous group can be designed, in accordance with their rights in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The results of the review are compared to common policies in handling unaccompanied children and youth. Key messages Unaccompanied children have commonly experienced trauma and loss. A lack of basic security has a pronounced effect on the ability to cope with daily issues and difficulties as well as with the future. Unaccompanied children and youth have a great need for adult support and guidance.