A Scoping Review of Family-Based Interventions for Immigrant/Refugee Children: Exploring Intergenerational Trauma

Hong, J., Ruacho, H. C., Zeng, X., & Franklin, C. (2025). A Scoping Review of Family-Based Interventions for Immigrant/Refugee Children: Exploring Intergenerational Trauma. Community Mental Health Journal, 61(7), 1253-1268.

Immigrant and refugee families often experience significant trauma, which can be transmitted across generations. Nonetheless, little is known about interventions that mitigate intergenerational trauma within these populations. We conducted a scoping review to synthesize research evidence on family-based trauma interventions for immigrant and refugee children and their families, focusing on intergenerational trauma. Our search included peer-reviewed studies published globally from 1990 to 2024 that tested intervention effectiveness using pre- and post-intervention outcomes and involved both children and family members. Five studies met our inclusion criteria, comprising two parenting interventions, two multifamily group interventions, and one schoolbased [sic] intervention. All five interventions improved the children’s mental health, while mixed findings were shown with parent mental health. Only one study explicitly named intergenerational trauma as their intervention goal, revealing a significant gap in this area. Recommendations for future studies are provided to guide practice and research in this critical area. [Abstract by Author]