Accompaniment for integration: Impact of a humanistic intervention for socially vulnerable migrant youth

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Abstract

In Spain, there has been a profound transformation in patterns of migration over the past two decades, creating promising opportunities and significant challenges. One key challenge is the social inclusion of vulnerable migrant youth. This study examines the impact of a comprehensive intervention program aimed at furthering the social and employment inclusion of this population. This program was implemented by the Madrid City Council and carried out by the NGO CESAL. A longitudinal study was conducted with a sample of 102 at-risk individuals between 18 and 25 years of age (M = 20.68; S.D. = 2.61), who took part in the training program La Quinta Cocina. After participating in the program, the young people showed a statistically significant increase in autonomy in the transition to adult life (ATVA), meaning in life, perceived social support, and self-concept. Those who initially presented lower levels of meaning in life also tended to obtain lower scores in perceived social support and self-concept. The combination of low scores in these three variables appears to be associated with a greater increase in ATVA following the intervention, suggesting that the program may be particularly beneficial for young people with greater deficits in personal and social resources. In conclusion, the findings indicate that La Quinta Cocina represents a promising psychosocial intervention for at-risk migrant youth. Grounded in humanistic principles, the program goes beyond vocational training by strengthening meaning in life, enhancing self-concept, consolidating formal and informal support networks, and addressing diverse participant profiles.