The purpose of this study was to investigate the present physical, mental, and psycho-social health of Vietnamese refugee children. Questionnaires were sent or given to adoptive families, foster families, and Vietnamese children living in the United States with their family units. Otitis media, respiratory ailments, and varicella constituted a large number of their initial medical problems. Severe nightmares and temper tantrums occurred frequently during their first year. It was found that the children's health and emotional problems improved markedly after the first year. Despite stormy pasts, present social and school problems are minimal, and some children appear to be high achievers. Most of the Vietnamese children, especially those who were adopted, are doing much better than we anticipated. Advance preparation and guidance given by the involved agencies appear to be of significance in achieving these excellent results. © 1984, Sage Publications. All rights reserved.

[No Keywords available]

Parents Vietnam refugee Follow-Up Studies human Refugees Foster Home Care health status geographic distribution adoption morbidity Adaptation, Psychological health United States family male case report child psychology female Child, Preschool diagnosis Support, Non-U.S. Gov't foster care ethnic or racial aspects nervous system Child Development Child