Social Navigation and the Resettlement Experiences of Separated Children in Canada

Authors

  • Myriam Denov McGill University
  • Catherine Bryan Dalhousie University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25071/1920-7336.38600

Keywords:

Canada, separated children, refugee children, resettlement, social navigation, discourse, agency

Abstract

This article explores the implications of language and discourse for the experiences of separated refugee children in Canada, and the ways in which anti-refugee and anti-child discourses shape the terrain of resettlement. The article begins by tracing the academic and popular discourses of refugee populations generally, and separated children specifically. Given the formulaic and rigid portrayals and representations, we introduce the concept of social navigation, which provides a useful framework to study the resettlement experiences of separated children. Following an overview of the study’s methodology, we explore the social navigation and resettlement experiences of seventeen youth. In particular, we highlight the creative, resourceful, and thoughtful ways in which the youth navigated the refugee determination system, experiences of discrimination and isolation, as well as separation and loss during the resettlement process. The article ultimately underscores the ways in which these children and youth strategically navigate resettlement, overcome challenges, and—despite significant ideological barriers and material obstacles—ensure their survival and well-being as individuals and as groups.

Metrics

Metrics Loading ...

Published

2014-05-06

How to Cite

Denov, M., & Bryan, C. (2014). Social Navigation and the Resettlement Experiences of Separated Children in Canada. Refuge: Canada’s Journal on Refugees, 30(1), 25–34. https://doi.org/10.25071/1920-7336.38600

Similar Articles

<< < 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 > >> 

You may also start an advanced similarity search for this article.