(Re)construction of Identity and resilience among Afghan and Hazara adolescents following forced migration

Abstract

This paper explores [re]construction of a sense of identity and resilience among Hazara and Afghan adolescents from refugee backgrounds following migration to Australia. We conducted a qualitative study involving ten adolescents and six parents. Findings demonstrated that adolescents perceived themselves as resilient with a sense of agency and determination core to this identity. Our analysis also showed the substantial influence of seeking and finding a sense of belonging on the sense of identity of participants. In the context of the major life challenges experienced by young people, reconstruction of identity, finding a sense of belonging and building resilience, are interrelated and ongo..