Voices of Youth: the Role of Participation in Integration for Unaccompanied Youth in Family Group Homes
De Almeida, Euclides (2024)
2024
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024120633505
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024120633505
Tiivistelmä
The purpose of this thesis is to explore how unaccompanied youth who have arrived alone in Finland participate in their integration process while living in a family group home. A qualitative research methodology was used and the data was analyzed with a content analysis approach. Specifically, data-driven content analysis was applied to expose relationships and deeper meanings through the lived experiences of unaccompanied minors. The aim of the study is to provide relevant information on promoting participation of youth in their integration process inside a family group home.
To gather data, I conducted interviews with three former residents of family group homes, now living independently as adults. Recruitment was done through social media to find voluntary participants willing to share their experiences. Three individuals responded and participated in the interviews.
The interviews focused on three key themes: daily life in family group homes, social connections, and well-being. The findings indicate that youth participation is apparent across these areas but varies in depth and significance. Participation in the daily routines was evident, but it was most effective through the social connection’s youth formed with peers and facilitators. The study also disclosed mixed feelings regarding mental health support and participation. Some participants felt it was lacking, while others were satisfied with the assistance they received.
The findings indicate that participation is complex and closely tied to the youth's sense of safety, support, and autonomy. It is shaped by the structure of the family group home and the relationships they form with facilitators and peers. The study also identifies areas for improvement, including the need for greater cultural sensitivity and understanding of the youth’s backgrounds, particularly concerning mental health and trauma. In conclusion, family group homes should foster trust, inclusion, and agency for unaccompanied youth to fully engage in their integration process.
To gather data, I conducted interviews with three former residents of family group homes, now living independently as adults. Recruitment was done through social media to find voluntary participants willing to share their experiences. Three individuals responded and participated in the interviews.
The interviews focused on three key themes: daily life in family group homes, social connections, and well-being. The findings indicate that youth participation is apparent across these areas but varies in depth and significance. Participation in the daily routines was evident, but it was most effective through the social connection’s youth formed with peers and facilitators. The study also disclosed mixed feelings regarding mental health support and participation. Some participants felt it was lacking, while others were satisfied with the assistance they received.
The findings indicate that participation is complex and closely tied to the youth's sense of safety, support, and autonomy. It is shaped by the structure of the family group home and the relationships they form with facilitators and peers. The study also identifies areas for improvement, including the need for greater cultural sensitivity and understanding of the youth’s backgrounds, particularly concerning mental health and trauma. In conclusion, family group homes should foster trust, inclusion, and agency for unaccompanied youth to fully engage in their integration process.