Community restructuring and the emotional and social health of youth: A study of a small coastal community in Newfoundland, Canada

Abstract

This paper presents findings from a qualitative study which examined the health implications of community restructuring (social, economic, environmental, and industrial change) for youth living in a small coastal community in Newfoundland, Canada. Eleven focus groups with youth ages 13-24 (n = 74) were conducted to obtain their perceptions on the impacts of the community restructuring that has occurred since the 1992 cod moratorium. Researcher observations over 5 visits were also part of the methodology. From the perspective of youth, significant losses have occurred within the community that have negatively affected their emotional and social health. At the same time, some aspects of the community have been relatively untouched by the changes and are reported to play a positive role in the youth's sense of well-being. However, current trends of youth leaving the community in search of economic stability may rupture these positive ties, which could have far-reaching negative implications as the youth move into adulthood.