The voices of refugee children in Norway: Coping with language barriers, outsiderness, bullying and longing

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the challenges faced by refugee children in Norway and analyzed how they coped with them. We conducted interviews with 23 children between the ages of 7 and 13. The findings showed that these children struggle with language barriers, outsiderness, bullying, and longing. They utilized both personal and interpersonal resources through active and passive methods to cope. The findings indicated that the experiences of these children were influenced by larger societal structures that limited their autonomy. We recommend incorporating the perspectives of refugee children at all levels of the system to empower them and enhance their well-being.