Yudina T.N. (2025) Adaptation of Adolescents with a Migration History through the Prism of Parental Perception: key Barriers and Expectations from the Support System. Society and Security Insights, 8(3), 39–64. (In Russ.). doi: 10.14258 ...

Abstract

The relevance of the study is due to the growing number of migrant children in Russian schools and insufficient knowledge of their adaptation difficulties. With stricter migration legislation (for example, a ban on enrolling children without knowledge of the Russian language from 2025) and an increase in illegal migration, understanding the barriers to adaptation of this group is becoming critically important for shaping effective government policy. The problem is particularly important in the Moscow metropolis, where about 40% of all migrants in the country are concentrated. The aim of the study is to identify and analyze the key barriers faced by migrant adolescents in the process of adaptation in Moscow and the Moscow Region, as well as their parents’ expectations regarding the existing and desired support system. The study is based on a questionnaire survey of migrants from Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan living in Moscow and the Moscow region and having teenage children aged 14–18 years, living with their parents and studying in educational institutions in the region. The sample was formed by the targeted selection method. data analysis included descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation. The analysis is based on the integration of structural-institutional, interpretive and conflictological approaches. The study revealed that the majority of migrant parents have been living in Russia for a long time, which indicates the formation of a stable diaspora. At the same time, their educational level varies from secondary specialized to higher education, and employment is concentrated mainly in low-skilled sectors of the economy. Parents identified three key barriers to children’s adaptation: difficulties in communicating with peers, language difficulties, and problems with mastering the school curriculum. At the same time, the family is considered by the respondents as the main factor of successful adaptation, while the role of educational institutions is estimated significantly lower. The parents named assistance in understanding Russian cultural norms, learning the Russian language, and assistance in school admission as priority areas of support. At the same time, some respondents believe that their children do not need additional help, which may indicate an underestimation of existing problems. The data obtained demonstrate the need for an integrated approach to the adaptation of migrant children, combining language training, cultural mediation and the involvement of families in interaction with schools. The results of the study can be used to improve regional and federal migrant integration programs. The study contributes to understanding the adaptation of migrant adolescents by focusing on a unique perspective — the perception and assessments of their parents. It reveals the key contradiction between parents’ recognition of barriers to adaptation and their distrust of institutional support mechanisms, as well as the dominant need for socio-cultural, not just functional integration. The results of the study have significant practical value for developers of educational and migration policy, the administration of educational organizations and civil society organizations.