Health and wellbeing impacts of experiences of public spaces for young people from refugee backgrounds in Australia

Anna Ziersch, Elaheh Ghaemi Mahdavi, Iris Levin, Moira Walsh, Clemence Due, Erin Green

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)
80 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

While there is evidence from the general population that experiences in public spaces can affect health and wellbeing, there is relatively limited research exploring this relationship for young people from refugee backgrounds, who are at higher risk of poor health. This paper draws on interviews, mapping and photovoice with 10 young people from refugee backgrounds and interviews with 16 service providers working with refugee youth, recruited through a survey and community and service networks. All interviews were analysed thematically, with photographs and maps also included in the analysis of interviews with young people. A typology of health-related experiences in public spaces was identified - including socialising and connection, a sense of welcome, a sense of safety, and relaxation and restoration. Each of these aspects of public space experiences could be health promoting. However, cutting across this typology was a theme of racism and discrimination, which affected health and wellbeing directly and indirectly through limiting young people's public space landscape.

Original languageEnglish
Article number100178
Number of pages10
JournalWellbeing, Space and Society
Volume5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2023

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
We would like to acknowledge and thank the young people who generously shared their stories with us, as well as the service providers who participated. We are very grateful to members of our Advisory Groups including young people from refugee backgrounds and staff from key non-government and local government organisations, who helped guide all aspects of the research. The study was funded by the Flinders Foundation.

Publisher Copyright:
© 2023

Keywords

  • Health
  • Integration
  • Public spaces
  • Racism
  • Refugee
  • Social determinants
  • Wellbeing
  • Youth

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