05/08/2023
"The research found that there are two processes at work here: In a classroom with a high proportion of 'non-German' children, you are more likely to get people who are accepting of other non-Germans, the researchers explained. But also, ethnic majority (i.e. second-generation German) students are less inclined to reject refugee peers if they are surrounded by diversity.
The study suggests that this finding – that more diversity does not lead to greater rejection by the ethnic majority group – is an important one, because it challenges critical views of multiculturalism.
These young people need more than just access to education. Having positive and supportive relationships with others their own age in turn leads to them achieving better grades at school and results in overall better health and well being for minority students.
The study suggests that if you take these away, the educational success and psychological adjustment of refugee adolescents will likely be put at risk."
Young refugees and asylum seekers in Germany are more likely to be accepted and find friends at school if their classmates also come from diverse backgrounds, a study has found.