Publication - kRQWMfMGVqbswhvBoE9x3Ejq9hy1

Invisible Lives and Hidden Realities of Undocumented Youth

By F. Kamal and K. D. Killian, published in 2015 in Refuge: Canada’s Journal on Refugees.

This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of undocumented youth and the mental health impacts of living in daily fear of detention and deportation. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted to examine the repercussions of living without immigration status, and the descriptive data were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Results indicate that lack of immigration status is associated with mental health issues, particularly anxiety. Absence of immigration status is implicated as a decisive social factor influencing individuals’ mental and social well-being.

Invisible Lives and Hidden Realities of Undocumented Youth

By F. Kamal and K. D. Killian, published in 2015 in Refuge: Canada’s Journal on Refugees.

This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of undocumented youth and the mental health impacts of living in daily fear of detention and deportation. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted to examine the repercussions of living without immigration status, and the descriptive data were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Results indicate that lack of immigration status is associated with mental health issues, particularly anxiety. Absence of immigration status is implicated as a decisive social factor influencing individuals’ mental and social well-being.

Invisible Lives and Hidden Realities of Undocumented Youth

October 7, 2025 • YouthREX

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