ABSTRACT In the Netherlands, the largest group of unaccompanied refugee minors originates from Eritrea. These minors have been exposed to several distressing events and face psychosocial challenges and drastic changes within their social-ecological environment upon arrival in the Netherlands. The current study explored challenges and needs of Eritrean unaccompanied refugee minors and their caregivers. We conducted a focused ethnography among Eritrean minors (N = 18) and their professional caregivers (N = 15). A thematic content analysis revealed the following themes to be central in the daily lives of Eritrean unaccompanied refugee minors: (a) relationships, (b) psychological stress, (c) preparation for independent living, (d) spirituality, and (e) leisure activities. Each theme was linked to key challenges, including minors finding their way without their parents, family reunification, and worries about the wellbeing of their relatives. These uncovered themes provide implications for future research and policy to improve the guidance, care, and support for these minors. The current study suggests that to promote their development and functioning, future training and programs should aim to strengthen the relationship of unaccompanied refugee minors and their professional caregivers.

中文翻译：

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厄立特里亚过渡时期无人陪伴的难民未成年人：挑战和需求的民族志

摘要在荷兰，最大的无人陪伴的未成年人难民来自厄立特里亚。这些未成年人在抵达荷兰后曾遭受过数次令人痛苦的事件，并在其社会生态环境中面临着社会心理挑战和急剧变化。当前的研究探讨了厄立特里亚无人陪伴的难民未成年人及其照顾者的挑战和需求。我们在厄立特里亚未成年人（N = 18）及其专业护理人员（N = 15）中进行了有针对性的人种志研究。主题内容分析表明，以下主题是厄立特里亚无人陪伴的未成年人的日常生活的中心：（a）关系，（b）心理压力，（c）为独立生活做准备，（d）灵性和（e）休闲活动。每个主题都与关键挑战相关，包括未成年人没有父母，家人团聚以及对亲戚幸福的担忧。这些未发现的主题为将来的研究和政策提供了启示，以改善对这些未成年人的指导，护理和支持。当前的研究表明，为促进他们的发展和运作，今后的培训和方案应旨在加强无人陪伴的难民未成年人与其专业护理人员的关系。