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Outcomes of bullying and intervention strategies for migrant and refugee children in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review

Author

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  • Çiçek Doğan, Özlem
  • Salameh, Taghreed
  • Güney, Seda
  • Şahin Tokatlıoğlu, Tuğba

Abstract

Migrant and refugee children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are highly vulnerable to peer bullying, adversely affecting their mental health and well-being. Despite its significant impact, research on bullying outcomes and effective school-based interventions for this group remains limited. The aim of this review to examine the health outcomes of peer bullying among migrant and refugee children in LMICs and identify school-based interventions to address bullying. A systematic search was conducted in six databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and ProQuest Dissertations) using keywords including, but not limited to, child*, adolescent*, refugee*, immigrant*, migrant*, bully*, outcome*, consequence* and intervention*. Studies published in English between 2014 and 2024 in LMICs, as classified by the World Bank, were included. Data extraction followed a standardized JBI-recommended charting tool to ensure accuracy. Of 639 screened studies, 14 met inclusion criteria. Participants, aged 8 to 18 years, included migrant, immigrant, and refugee children in school and community settings. Overall findings showed bullying was strongly associated with adverse mental health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, stress, post-traumatic stress, and self-harm. Resilience and social support were key protective factors. However, interventions were limited; one study reported Jungian art therapy effectively reduced bullying among Afghan refugee children. Peer bullying severely impacts the mental health of migrant and refugee children in LMICs. There is a critical need for culturally sensitive, resilience-focused interventions and enhanced social support systems. Future research should explore physical health impacts and cyberbullying in this population.

Suggested Citation

  • Çiçek Doğan, Özlem & Salameh, Taghreed & Güney, Seda & Şahin Tokatlıoğlu, Tuğba, 2025. "Outcomes of bullying and intervention strategies for migrant and refugee children in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 176(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:176:y:2025:i:c:s019074092500266x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2025.108383
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