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A qualitative study of the experiences of newcomer youth in the STRONG intervention

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  • Saltzman, Michelle
  • Chiodo, Deb
  • King, Colin B.

Abstract

Newcomer youth face multifaceted and complex stressors throughout all phases of migration, increasing their risk for psychological distress. While many display considerable resilience, culturally responsive, strengths-based interventions are essential to support their psychosocial adjustment. The Supporting Transition Resilience of Newcomer Groups (STRONG) is a manualized group-based intervention designed to enhance coping, resilience, and well-being among newcomer youth. This qualitative study explored the experiences and recommendations for intervention improvement of 22 newcomer youth aged 10–18 who participated in STRONG across both school and community settings, extending previous research that primarily focused on school-based delivery. Using four semi-structured focus groups and reflexive thematic analysis, seven themes were identified: (1) gained coping and relaxation skills, (2) reflections on intervention structure and content, (3) mixed experiences sharing personal journey narratives, (4) opportunity for social connections, (5) refining intervention structure and delivery, (6) expanding intervention opportunities, and (7) intervention endorsement. Findings underscore the value of youth-informed evaluation and the importance of trauma-informed, culturally responsive programming for newcomer youth mental health. The results demonstrate that STRONG is highly acceptable to participants and supports their coping strategies, engagement with peers, and application of skills in daily life. Moreover, delivering STRONG in both school and community settings highlights the potential for broader implementation beyond traditional school contexts. These results offer practical direction for tailoring interventions that effectively respond to the distinctive psychosocial experiences of newcomer youth navigating resettlement.

Suggested Citation

  • Saltzman, Michelle & Chiodo, Deb & King, Colin B., 2026. "A qualitative study of the experiences of newcomer youth in the STRONG intervention," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 186(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:186:y:2026:i:c:s0190740926002768
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2026.109023
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