Cultural Influences on Child and Adolescent Mental Health: Needs of Immigrant, Refugee, Displaced, and Culturally Vulnerable Youth

Discussion of culture is complex and, within a mental health context, may prove to be complicated and controversial. This chapter defines culture, acculturation, and marginalization, explores cultural factors that advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) must understand. It addresses the complex needs of immigrant, refugee, displaced, and culturally vulnerable youth living in challenging in country environments or who are crossing numerous global geographic boundaries. Cultural factors have an impact on the mental/behavioral health of immigrant and refugee children and the children of immigrant parents. The chapter also includes practice, education, and research implications along with recommendations for APRNs working with immigrant, refugee, displaced, and culturally vulnerable populations, and concludes with a case exemplar to illustrate key considerations.