Experiences of Newcomer Youth in the Home Environment

Mikaela Burgos Cando, The University of Western Ontario

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to identify the strengths and the needs of newcomer youth within their home environments. Youth between the ages of 15 and 18 years old who immigrated within the previous two years and were living in a medium-sized Canadian city were interviewed. Group interviews were conducted with participants at a local community centre. Analysis of the data was completed using concept mapping (Trochim, 1989) which included multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis. Results indicated that newcomer youth felt secure and experienced positive familial connections; however, challenges included the need for greater warmth and support from their families as well as openness to change.