To Örebro University

Background: Adolescence is a period of identity development and relational growth. For newly arrived youth, this process is complicated by the overlapping challenges of migration, language learning, and psychosocial adjustment. While many interventions for this group focus on clinical or academic outcomes, fewer address everyday experiences that shape social belonging and emotional wellbeing. The PIA Youth Program responds to this gap as a universal, school-based, dialogue-driven intervention designed to support integration through experience sharing,reflection, and positive reinforcement.

Method: This presentation examines 19 semi-structured qualitative interviews with newly arrived adolescents (aged 14–16) who participated in the PIA Program, exploring their experiences of its impact on their social, emotional, and communicative development.

Results: Using thematic analysis of in-depth interviews, key themes were identified as Language and communication skill development, Development of behavior, Emotional and social skills and Importance of leadership. Youth described sessions as safe and enjoyable spaces where they could speak without fear of judgment, reflect on identity and social norms, and enhance confidence. Participants emphasized that relatable texts, meaningful discussions, and a supportive facilitator helped them build emotional resilience, social courage, and communicative skills. They described increased perspective-taking, better understanding of cultural differences, and stronger abilities to handle social uncertainty. Expressed challenges included fear of mistakes, unfamiliar group settings, and linguistic barriers, especially among those less confident in Swedish or their mother tongue. Youth suggested improvements such as simplified language, visual materials, and more interactive and flexible session formats.

Discussion: Findings underscore the importance of culturally sensitive dialogical spaces in schools to support integration beyond academic achievements. Findings highlight the value of incorporating culturally representative role models who serve as facilitators, using culturally responsive practices, and providing flexible interventions. These facilitators help foster reflection and connection, making the PIA Youth Program a meaningful contributor to participants’ integration journey.