Analyzes the psychosocial problems of immigrant children as they adjust to life in the United States and suggests interventions. Immigrant children leave behind a familiar culture, community, language, and social system while at the same time fleeing from persecution and harsh conditions. They are forced to adjust to the host society and deal with a variety of issues, including: acculturation and assimilation, culture shock, and ethnic identity issues. Furthermore, children may experience an intergenerational conflict of values with parents and relatives as well as a lessening of parental authority. School adjustment may present another challenge. As a result, immigrant children are at risk for drug use, psychosocial problems, school failure, and risk-taking behavior, such as criminal and sexual acts. School personnel and care providers should be trained to recognize problems and refer children for appropriate treatment. Culturally relevant counseling should be made available as well as prevention and early intervention programs. (IP)
