What the study found
The review found that about half of the school-based programs it examined had some effects on the outcomes they targeted for recently arrived immigrant adolescents. The programs mainly focused on social-emotional well-being, mental health problems, resilience, social support, or trauma-related symptoms.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors conclude that there are some promising findings, but the current literature is too limited to support robust conclusions. They say future research should examine why, how, and for whom programs lead, or do not lead, to intended outcomes, and should develop effective programs that can be implemented with available school resources.
What the researchers tested
The researchers conducted a scoping review following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. They searched five databases—Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, SCOPUS, and ERIC—for studies published since 2000 on interventions implemented in formal school settings for recently arrived adolescents.
What worked and what didn't
The review identified 15 studies that evaluated 17 programs. Around 50% of the programs showed some effects on their intended outcomes, but the abstract does not specify which programs worked best or which outcomes improved most consistently.
What to keep in mind
The abstract says the literature has several limitations, but it does not list them in detail. It also does not provide enough information to judge the size, durability, or comparative strength of the effects.
Key points
- The review covered 15 studies and 17 school-based programs.
- About 50% of the programs had some effects on intended outcomes.
- Programs mainly targeted well-being, mental health, resilience, social support, or trauma-related symptoms.
- The authors say the literature is limited and does not support robust conclusions.
- Future research should examine why, how, and for whom these programs work.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- School-based programs showed some effects for recently arrived immigrant youth
- Authors:
- Metin Özdemir, Brit Oppedal, Sandra Altebo Nyathi, Layan Amouri, Hasnaa Amouri, Sevgi Bayram Özdemir
- Institutions:
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Örebro University, Örebro University, Örebro University, Örebro University, Örebro University
- Publication date:
- 2026-02-10
- DOI:
- 10.1002/jcop.70088
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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