'Paving the Way' Handbook - ICMC

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resettled refugees it is useful to consider the different phases of adjustment refugees go through,
since these may affect the way they respond to guidance and support, (see diagram).
Things to consider working with Resettled Refugees:
The Four Stages of Adjustment
The ‘honeymoon’ stage – This can take place when refugees first arrive and can have
the following traits: enthusiasm, fascination, curiosity, excitement and hope for a new
life yet also some anxiety regarding the future.
The ‘hesitation’ stage – This can set in after 4 – 6 months when, in a common mix
of homesickness and/or culture shock, refugees hesitate to accept their new resettlement
country, specifically its different food, language and cultural ways. They may
develop resentment around family reunion and employment expectations, traits can
be: isolation, distress, anger/resentment towards support services, sleeplessness and
headaches.
The ‘overcoming hurdles’ stage/coming to terms– Gradually their new country,
climate, food and home is accepted and they are starting to make friends and establish
contacts; most begin to grasp more of the local language.
The ‘home’ stage – This is when a refugee begins to feel more at home and more
integrated within the local community, speaking the language, accessing education or
employment, etc. For some this can take a number of years; unfortunately, a small
number may never reach this stage fully.
Part II - Essential Services
Mood
High
!
Low
Learn they will be
resettled
Experienced
trauma
Pre-departure
difficulties
Arriving in country of
resettlement
Ups and downs over
months and years
Based on: ‘Count me in! A resource to support ESL students with refugee experience in schools,’
Minister for Education, Literacy Secretariat, Government of South Australia, 2007.
Starting to feel more
at home