Social work with unaccompanied minor refugees: the role of social workers in the development of psychological resilience
Published:
Apr 19, 2026
Keywords:
unaccompanied minors social work vulnerability resilience social workers’ challenges
Abstract
Social work with unaccompanied minor refugees constitutes a complex field of intervention, as it concerns a highly vulnerable social group with multifaceted psychosocial needs. These minors often experience traumatic events such as the loss of family and homeland, hardships during the migratory journey, and the challenges of adaptation in the host country, which increase the likelihood of developing mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. Social workers in accommodation facilities are called upon to address the complex needs of unaccompanied minors by implementing interventions that foster psychological resilience through trust-based relationships, empowerment, and the development of interpersonal skills.This study explores the role of social workers in relation to the needs of unaccompanied minor refugees, the approaches that promote psychological resilience, and the challenges professionals face in practice. The research is based on qualitative data collected from social workers employed in accommodation structures for unaccompanied asylum-seeking minors in the Attica Region. The findings highlight the importance of stability, psychosocial support, and intercultural approaches as key factors for the empowerment, mental well-being, and social integration of unaccompanied minor refugees.
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Kompoti, D., Dompri, V., & Malisiova, E. (2026). Social work with unaccompanied minor refugees: the role of social workers in the development of psychological resilience. Social Work. Review of Social Sciences, 40(1), 53–71. https://doi.org/10.12681/socialwork-rss.43188
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