Transnational family life of displaced unaccompanied minors - A systematic review

Background: Research on unaccompanied minors (UMs) has identified the physical separation from family as a main stressor despite increased opportunities, via Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), for maintaining transnational family life across geographical borders.Objectives: The aim of the study is to synthesize previous research on the transnational family relationships of UMs from the perspective of the children.Methods: A systematic literature review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Standards for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols was carried out. The databases Web of Science, PsycINFO, Psyndex, and Pubmed/Medline were systematically searched. Reports from International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) were screened manually. Two hundred fifty-six full-texts were identified and screened.Results: Twelve qualitative and two quantitative studies met inclusion criteria and provided information on transnational family connections and the importance of the family for UMs. Studies addressed the following themes: the importance of the family, contact and maintenance of transnational relationships, the role of ICTs, the impact of family life on UMs' psychosocial wellbeing, and the hope for reunification.Conclusion: This review underscores the continued importance of the family to displaced UMs and highlights the need to foster and examine transnational connections in further research and practice with UMs.