Objective: Building on what is known about pathways to resilience young people navigate when migrating to a new country from a conflict zone, this study explores protective factors that promote resilience among newcomer youth. This will be demonstrated through outcomes such as disengagement in all forms of violence, including gang involvement, delinquency and violent extremism. It will also be demonstrated through a healthy sense of self, interdependence, social integration and capacity to function well in education, family, cultural and community, or work settings.

Justification: Two in five Canadian children have an immigrant background (StatCan, 2017), with this number expected to continue growing. Research has indicated that although many immigrant youth have positive experiences, many also endure difficult transitions, with issues pre- and post-migration, resulting in a pattern of risk for negative psychosocial well-being, academic performance, and community engagement.

Practical goal: This study will identify the various socio-ecological factors intersecting with migration, culture, religion, and gender that impact the resilience of newcomer youth.

Primary audience: policy makers, service providers, academics, and newcomer youth and families