Interpersonal risks, resources and depression symptoms among resettled unaccompanied minor refugees

The present study is an exploratory study based on quantitative data from 62 unaccompanied minor refugees. The purpose of this study was to examine risks and resources in their social networks after resettlement, in addition to the level of depression symptoms, and how these factors were associated. It was also explored whether social support had a moderating effect in the link between interpersonal stressors and depression symptoms. The focus of this study is on ongoing interpersonal stressors, reflected by worries about family members abroad and problems in relation to friends in Norway, in addition to perceived social support from these two sources. Results indicated that unaccompanied minor refugees had high levels of depression symptoms, and that aspects of their social support network have a significant impact on their well-being. Moderator effects of social support were not found. This study is unique in that it explores aspects of the social network that may promote or prevent positive adaptation among unaccompanied minor refugees after resettlement. As this study is based on a relatively small sample, more work is needed to understand this process and to validate findings.