by Adam Miller
Findings recently released by Monash University have shown that immigrant adolescents who feel connected to their family, school, and community experience better mental and social health overall.
The paper, titled ‘Examining factors influencing belonging amongst immigrant adolescents,’ published in the Children and Youth Services Review, analysed 25 international studies to uncover the key factors that affect the belonging young people feel when settling in to new countries.
PhD candidate Rhea Jain, lead author from Monash University’s Faculty of Education, said, “The evidence shows that adolescent belonging is strengthened when cultural identities are recognised rather than erased.
“Programs that honour heritage languages and provide room to navigate multiple identities are a part of helping young people feel settled and confident.” Ms Jain said.
Boroondara local, psychiatrist Delaram Kermany, said “there are positive elements in the area” but barriers such as a lack of accessible group-based activities for CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) children still exist.
Mrs Kermany, said her daughter, who, like her mother, is originally from Iran, “has faced challenges forming friendships at school” because English is not her native language.
Mrs Kermany and her daughter’s native language is Persian, a Western Iranian language spoken by more than 120 million people worldwide. “School alone cannot carry the full responsibility of social integration,” she said. “Community-based environments outside the classroom play a critical role in helping children feel seen and included and opportunities to participate in group activities with peers in supportive settings would greatly assist CALD children in developing confidence, social skills, and a genuine sense of belonging in their new community.”
Making community sport more affordable would also go a long way in aiding newly arrived immigrants, Mrs Kermany added. “Physical activity is essential not only for physical health, but also for mental wellbeing and social connection.”
“More affordable options, subsidies, or council-supported programs would make a meaningful difference and ensure that access to healthy, community-building activities is not determined by financial capacity.”