Perspectives of system-involved youth on giving and receiving social support

Former foster youth are at greater risk for negative outcomes during the transition to adulthood (Courtney & Dworsky, 2006). Relatively less is known about their interpersonal experiences, including their perceptions of... [ view full abstract ]

Former foster youth are at greater risk for negative outcomes during the transition to adulthood (Courtney & Dworsky, 2006). Relatively less is known about their interpersonal experiences, including their perceptions of supportive social relationships (Curry & Abrams, 2015). Research suggests that trauma and system involvement, combined with a cultural emphasis on self-sufficiency, may lead some former foster youth to prefer self-reliance over dependence on supportive others. This paper presents mixed-methods data on the perceptions of former foster youth on their interpersonal relationships. Data are from a study of current and former foster youth in a northeastern state, conducted collaboratively with the state’s child welfare agency.

Methods: Data were collected from over 200 current and former foster youth, ages 18-27, who were randomly selected from state databases and stratified by age, location, and case type. Ninety minute in-person interviews included questions about interpersonal contact with family, mentors, and perceptions of support received from and provided to others. Open-ended questions sought youth perceptions of their lived experiences in the system. Data were analyzed using SPSS/Atlas.TI.

Results: Most youth from out-of-home care maintained contact with their biological families (62.8%) but wished they could have more contact with them (60.2%). Most identified a mentor (50.7%) and an adult whom they could always turn to for help with a serious problem (77.3%). 86.4% of youth reported that others rely on them frequently. Many respondents described becoming more independent and self-reliant, after learning that they could not rely on others to meet their needs or advocate on their behalf. Qualitative responses reflected ambivalence about interpersonal help-seeking for themselves, along with offering help to others.

Conclusion: Data indicate the importance of youth perspective on the social support provided them by family members, caseworkers, and other adults involved in preparing foster youth for the transition to adulthood.