'You Don't Belong Here in Germany...': On the Social Situation of Refugee Children in Germany

In: Journal of refugee studies, Band 14, Heft 2, S. 187-199

Abstract

This paper looks at refugee children in Germany, drawing on results of an interview-based research project. Areas covered include how the children learn German & the role of bilingual skills; friendships & contacts at school; the degree of integration in the local neighborhood; how traumatic experiences are dealt with; the effects of lack of secure residential status; the specific situation of unaccompanied minors. One of the salient features of refugee children's lives is the state of constant uncertainty as regards the future & life planning. It increases the psychological pressure inherent in life stories already characterized by flight, social dislocation, & social & cultural uprootedness. 9 References. Adapted from the source document.