Multidimensional Deprivation Among Newly Resettled Afghans in the U.S.

• In Event: From Head Start to Start-Ups:Economic and Social Integration of Immigrants in the U.S.

Abstract

Introduction: This study explores multidimensional deprivation among newly resettled Afghan refugees in the United States, focusing on their experiences of poverty and discrimination. Utilizing quantitative data from a survey of 191 Afghan households in St. Louis, Missouri, the research employs an adapted version of the Census Multidimensional Deprivation Index (MDI) to assess multidimensional poverty across five domains: living standards, education, health, economic security, and housing quality. Additionally, perceived discrimination is measured using scales covering everyday discrimination, workplace discrimination, and major discriminatory events.

Methods: Quantitative data were collected from 191 Afghan households (N = 930 individuals; including parolees, asylum seekers, and Special Immigrant Visa [SIV] holders) through interviewer-administered surveys conducted in Dari, Pashto, and English. The adapted MDI was used to measure multidimensional poverty, and perceived discrimination was assessed across three subscales. Regression analysis was employed to explore the relationships among demographic characteristics, poverty, and discrimination, while cluster analysis was used to identify vulnerability profiles.

Results: Findings reveal significant levels of multidimensional poverty, with 85.98% of surveyed households experiencing deprivation in at least two domains. Economic insecurity was notably high, with 76.22% of respondents unemployed, and over half (54.50%) living in overcrowded conditions. Education levels were also concerning, with 34.92% of participants lacking a high school diploma. Health vulnerabilities were indicated by 22.99% lacking health insurance, alongside reported disabilities and chronic conditions.Perceived discrimination was widespread, with nearly half (48.16%) reporting discrimination across multiple domains, especially in everyday life (56.54%) and workplace contexts (51.31%). Regression analyses identified that English proficiency significantly reduced poverty risk, particularly among older adults aged 41-60. Conversely, longer U.S. residency periods correlated with increased discrimination risks, especially among younger adults and women.Cluster analysis identified distinct subgroups within the Afghan refugee community based on their vulnerability to poverty and discrimination. The most vulnerable households had low English proficiency, numerous minors, and extensive reliance on federal assistance, correlating with elevated poverty. Conversely, those most affected by discrimination had relatively better English skills and lower reliance on federal aid, suggesting that perceived discrimination might be exacerbated by greater exposure to employment and social settings where discrimination could occur.

Conclusion: This research underscores critical gaps in current U.S. refugee resettlement programs, particularly their limited scope beyond immediate employment towards broader economic integration. It highlights the inadequacy of short-term self-sufficiency goals in addressing the extensive and persistent barriers faced by Afghan refugees. Instead, economic integration efforts must encompass sustained supports, including improved access to quality education, healthcare, stable employment opportunities, and strategies to mitigate discrimination.

Implications: The findings emphasize that refugee integration policy should shift from short-term economic goals to comprehensive long-term integration frameworks addressing multidimensional aspects of poverty and discrimination. Tailored programs promoting language proficiency, addressing systemic biases, and supporting demographic-specific vulnerabilities are recommended. The study provides policymakers and practitioners with a robust framework for understanding and addressing the complex challenges facing Afghan refugees, ultimately contributing to more inclusive, effective resettlement strategies.

Authors

• Jihye Lee, Washington University in St. Louis
  Presenting Author

• Mitra Naseh, Washington University in St. Louis
  Non-Presenting Co-Author

• Yingying Zeng, University of Georgia
  Non-Presenting Co-Author

• Saria Bechara, Washington University in St. Louis
  Non-Presenting Co-Author