Care leavers across Europe are at risk for poor outcomes. This include indicators as education, mental and physical health and homelessness as well as unemployment, dependence of social assistance and crime (Backe-Hansen,... [ view full abstract ]
Care leavers across Europe are at risk for poor outcomes. This include indicators as education, mental and physical health and homelessness as well as unemployment, dependence of social assistance and crime (Backe-Hansen, Madsen, Kristofersen, & Hvinden, 2014; Berlin, Vinnerljung, & Hjern, 2011; Jackson & Cameron, 2011). However, there is a need to move beyond a problem-oriented focus and increase our knowledge about those who are doing well. This knowledge can provide important insights in relation to the provision of timely and relevant services. Hence, in this paper we address the issue of former child welfare youth that are doing well in spite of their at times massively adverse life experiences.
This paper draws on data from the project Against all odds which is a cross-national and mixed method study (Norway, Denmark, England) financed by the Norwegian Research Counsel. Here we will present results from the Norwegian part of the study.
Our aim in this paper is to elaborate on what doing well means to young Norwegian women and men with former placements in care, based on a series of in-depth interviews with young adults at different ages. Are their perceptions of doing well in accordance with traditional normative indicators for doing well, for example getting an education, a steady income, and a place to live, having a family and friends, or are other elements of life perceived as more or equally important? How can we understand their perceptions of a good outcome? How do their life experiences influence their perceptions of what is important in their adult life, and do their perceptions change over time?
We base our preliminary analyses on life course interviews with teenagers and young adults, from a sample of 24 individuals aged 16-18, 21-24 and 26-29 respectively. Criteria for inclusion has been that they are in school (theoretical or vocational), are taking further education (beyond compulsory school) or are employed. They have all experienced placements in residential or foster care, or both, of at least three years’ duration. Theoretically, we will draw on Bronfenbrenner’s theory (1979) of ecological systems. This theory includes examination of various systems that influence individuals and families, and each level interacts with each other.
Our analyses suggest that the traditional indicators of doing well (education, job, being able to support themselves, family) are, not surprisingly, reflected in young adults’ subjective assessment of their own life trajectories. However, other elements are also highlighted as important, for instance the significance of feeling safe, of stability and belonging, which they have been deprived of because of their earlier life experiences. This indicates a need for a more differentiated view when defining positive outcomes among young adults who have experienced out-of-home placement(s).
