Work practices in migrant reception: A systematic review of approaches and challenges

This systematic review examines the work practices implemented by professionals within migrant reception contexts, with particular attention to young people and unaccompanied minors. Drawing on four databases (PsychInfo, PsychArticles, PubMed and Scopus) and following PRISMA guidelines, 40 articles published between 2014 and 2024 were selected. The included studies, almost exclusively qualitative in nature, addressing a wide range of practices, approaches, and methodologies. Four main thematic areas emerged from the analysis: (1) the challenges and restrictive policies that influence both the quality of interventions and the well-being of professionals and young migrants; (2) the development of innovative and emerging methodologies aimed at promoting inclusion, autonomy, and integration; (3) the debate surrounding therapeutic and clinical approaches versus the recognition of relational, social, and spiritual dimensions, which emphasize the importance of support networks, religious communities, and cultural traditions; and (4) the need for intercultural competencies, continuous training, and knowledge, all of which are essential to managing the cultural, linguistic, and regulatory complexities of reception contexts. The findings indicate that professionals’ work practices are the result of a delicate balance between structural constraints, the potential of support networks, and professional competencies. This review underscores the importance of providing tools, resources, and ongoing training to practitioners, as well as developing organizational policies and practices that can sustain culturally sensitive approaches.