Interpretation: Individuals that present with trauma symptoms may be referred to a qualified cooperating
service provider for assessment.
Note: Refer to the
Assessment Matrix for additional assessment
criteria. The elements of the matrix can be tailored according to the needs of specific individuals or service design.
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Research Note: A review of consistent themes from a decade of research in the psychological well being of children and adolescent refugee and asylum seekers confirms the importance of trauma assessment to determine the effects of pre-migration exposure to trauma, particularly for those with extended trauma experience, unaccompanied or separated children and youth, and those whose status is uncertain. Factors identified repeatedly as mediating psychological health important to assess, include: family cohesion, family support, and parent psychological health; individual factors, include: adaptability, temperament and self-esteem; and peer and community support. |
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NA The agency provides only legal services.
Assessments are conducted in a culturally responsive manner to identify reasons for dislocation and relocation, critical experiences in transit, and resources that can increase service participation and support the achievement of agreed upon goals.
Interpretation: Culturally responsive assessments can include attention to geographic location, language of choice, and the person’s religious, racial, ethnic and cultural background. Other important factors that contribute to a responsive assessment include attention to age, sexual orientation, and developmental level.
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Research Note: Owing to the complexity and dynamic nature of resettlement issues that challenge immigrant and refugee families, children, and service providers, some practice professionals suggest a broad, historical framework for gathering understanding of the person’s multi-stage migration experience. Such an approach holds implications for assessment, service philosophy, and personnel. |
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Research Note: A description of interview content obtained with Unaccompanied Refugee Minor program staff and children receiving services indicates that assessment of trafficked individuals is often a gradual process, and that the person’s narrative of events needs to unfold as comfort and trust permit. Discrepancies in accounts given over time and to various individuals are found to occur in practice and should be noted without placing undue pressure on an individual to account for such differences, since individuals can demonstrate increased comfort over time with providing a coherent history. Safety and the need for a safety plan are another critical aspect of assessment for trafficked individuals. |
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Research Note: A growing body of professional literature and research on immigrant health care and health care needs, access, and treatment adherence indicate that services may be underutilized due to factors that could be identified through a skillful assessment. |
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Research Note: A survey of nine widely dispersed large metropolitan refugee health programs found that health assessment components varied, as did health care offerings. The study found refugees' assessments were not coordinated with required pre-migration health assessment results, and refugees were screened routinely for infectious diseases, but not chronic conditions. The study raised questions about sufficiency of resources, quality of assessments, and interventions that follow. |
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The information gathered for assessments is comprehensive, directed at identified concerns and limited to material pertinent for providing requested services and meeting service
objectives.
The assessment takes into account factors associated with positive adjustment and long term economic status of immigrants and refugees, including:
- a helpful reception;
- economic aspirations relative to length of residence;
- preparation to adapt to the destination culture; and
- family background, expectations, and resources.
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Research Note: Results of a rigorous study using aggregate level census data, which found that economic status of childhood refugee arrivals differs by refugee group, argues for examining how refugee program participation or non-participation in childhood affects adjustment and later economic outcome. This study promotes analysis and understanding of individual and family factors that contribute to successful adaptation and compliments research on factors that predispose refugee children to assimilate into high academic achieving U.S.-born peer groups. |
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Research Note: A mixed methods study drawing upon survey data and ethnographic case studies of five groups of children of immigrants builds on the theory that interpersonal networks and knowledge and resources passed along from people with similar experience will aid assimilation. What it means and takes to become an American, beginning with either a hostile or helpful reception continuing through receipt of support, would be of significance for an assessment of need and orientation to seeking help. |
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The assessment identifies transferable workforce skills, aptitudes, and competencies that will aid adaptation.
Personnel who conduct assessments are qualified by
training, skill, and experience, and are able to recognize individuals and families with
special needs.
Assessments are completed within timeframes established by the agency, and updated as necessary.
