Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health
Volume 55, Issue 8, 2019, Pages 890-894

Complexities of conducting research in adolescent refugees resettling in Australia (Note)

Hirani K.* , Mutch R. , Payne D. , Cherian S.
  • a Refugee Health Service, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia, Division of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
  • b Refugee Health Service, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia, Division of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
  • c Headspace, Perth, WA, Australia, Youth Cancer Services, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
  • d Refugee Health Service, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia, Division of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia

Abstract

Adolescent refugees resettling in Australia are a vulnerable and marginalised population. Dedicated research to help better understand their health-care needs remains scarce. There are multiple complexities which may deter health professionals from conducting research with this population. Health-care system barriers, such as lack of adolescent- and refugee-specific health-care services, complicate comprehensive data collection. Limited investigator knowledge pertaining to culturally appropriate research in a population with limited English proficiency or a history of trauma can have an impact on adolescent participation and retention in research studies. Additional ethical and legal issues relating to adolescent consent and confidentiality, which include suicidality and physical or sexual abuse, can arise during research and cause potential harm to adolescents if not managed appropriately. This article highlights current knowledge and understanding relating to these issues along with recommendations to address barriers and safeguard adolescents, with the aim of promoting high-quality research that will benefit resettling adolescent refugees. © 2019 Paediatrics and Child Health Division (The Royal Australasian College of Physicians)

Author Keywords

[No Keywords available]

Index Keywords

information processing medical research priority journal age distribution dental age estimation Note refugee health care system language Australia birth certificate adolescent health literacy high risk behavior informed consent Confidentiality bone age determination human
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85068158167&doi=10.1111%2fjpc.14550&partnerID=40&md5=6b5805a3530d99daf90f48f5cdecbd38
DOI: 10.1111/jpc.14550
ISSN: 10344810
Original Language: English