This page contains the findings of systematic reviews undertaken by review groups linked to the EPPI-Centre

One review investigated provision for young children, in or near their country of origin, who had direct experience of armed conflict.These findings will also be of interest to schools with refugee children.[1]

• There was statistically significant evidence that group interventions focusing on normalisation were beneficial in terms of psychosocial outcomes.  There was no evidence of effect on cognitive development.
• The part played by children themselves in activities promoting the ‘normalisation’ of their daily living circumstances and strengthening their coping mechanisms, appeared crucial to the success of the interventions.
• The development of problem-focused coping strategies was more effective than emotion-focused ones.

References

1. How effective are measures taken to mitigate the impact of direct experience of armed conflict on the psychosocial and cognitive development of children aged 0-8? (2005)