Resilient Romanian Immigrant Children in Italy

Romanian immigrants form the largest immigrant group in Italy, with over 1 million Romanians in Italy and over 90,000 Romanian children enrolled in Italian schools. This study assessed the social inclusion of this immigrant group by looking at Romanian children’s reports of school success and inclusion in Italian school. The study surveyed 881 Romanian children ages 11-18 who are enrolled in Italian school, using the School Success Profile-Romanian translation (Bowen & Richman, 2001; Hărăguș, Roth & Dămean, 2010; Mezei, Damean, & Degi, 2010).  Romanian children report successful grades, good relationships with teachers and peer students, and active involvement in school activities.  These children are generally satisfied with their experience and preparation at school.  They report some discrimination among neighbors in their community.  This study provides evidence that Romanian immigrants in Italy are resilient and experience strong social inclusion into school, a major social institution.