Grant: Doctoral Award - Frederick Banting and Charles Best Canada Graduate Scholarships

A significant amount of research has been carried out related to the use and underuse of mental health services in adult immigrant populations. However, much of this research is centered around the experiences of adults and when it involves children it is focused primarily on the experiences of parents (Jaswal, 2005). The perspectives and voices of children and youth, in relation to mental health and the challenges of immigration are sadly lacking. Working with youth to uncover the challenges they face when operating in multiple 'cultures', as well as the strengths of social support structures or services (formal or informal) that they access, provides a unique opportunity. The proposed research will help to build on strengths and identify existing gaps in support available to immigrant youth. In using a community based approach, the research process itself will allow for the continuous enhancement of program delivery while giving the youth involved in the research the opportunity to gain valuable experience and research training. The outcomes of this research will help to inform future program development for immigrant youth, creating and enhancing supports to minimize the stress of living 'between worlds' and improving the accessibility of mental health supports for youth.