Protective factors in unaccompanied foreign minors: a qualitative study from a neuroeducational professional perspective

Abstract

The increase in Unaccompanied Foreign Minors (UFMs) across Mediterranean countries has heightened the need to understand the emotional, cognitive, and developmental challenges associated with their migratory trajectories. These challenges—linked to trauma, affective deprivation, stimulation deficits, and inconsistent care systems—shape their adjustment and learning processes in the host country. This study aims to identify the main consequences of these experiences and the protective factors that best support UFMs’ development. An interpretative qualitative design was employed through a collective case study based on in-depth interviews with fourteen professionals from diverse roles and institutional contexts in Spain and Italy. Data were analysed using an inductive–deductive coding strategy in MAXQDA, supported by expert validation, member checking, triangulation, and a multi-layered reliability protocol. The findings highlight the central role of stable, supportive relationships and affective co-regulation in promoting recovery and facilitating adaptation. Other protective elements include early cognitive and linguistic stimulation, culturally sensitive practices, restorative institutional environments, and structured accompaniment during the transition to adulthood. In contrast, stimulation deficits, family pressure, and inadequately structured systems intensify vulnerability. Overall, the results underscore the need to rethink current intervention models through a trauma-aware perspective that strengthens emotional support, learning conditions, and early guidance to promote more sustainable inclusion trajectories for UFMs.