Identity Development in Emancipated Young Adults Following Foster Care

Heather Mulkerns · Carol Owen

36 citations0/0 files storedSmith College Studies in Social Work

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Child Welfare and Adoption Social Work Education and Practice Identity, Memory, and Therapy

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the experiences of 12 youth who were emancipated from state‐sponsored foster care at age 18 and attempted to establish themselves independently. The findings were analyzed through the lens of two developmental theories: separation/individuation and relational/cultural. Interview data revealed that the often‐difficult experiences of emancipating from foster care influenced an evolving sense of self. Participants identified strongly with self‐sufficiency and help‐avoidance and reported an inaccessibility of peer support. Although much of the current literature focuses on critiques of public foster care programs, this study provides insights into how youth have been personally affected by emancipation. It also contains implications for social work practice with emancipated and soon to be emancipating youth.

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References

1968Identity : Youth and Crisis. 1968 2026Childhood and Society 1969Identity—Youth and Crisis 1977Toward a New Psychology of Women.1977Toward a New Psychology of Women 1959Identity and the life cycle: Selected papers.1991Women's growth in connection: writings from the Stone Center 2002Foster youth transitions to adulthood: a longitudinal view of youth leaving care.

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2020Exploring college student identity among young people with foster care histories and mental health challenges 2019Reflections on Upholding the Rights of Youth Leaving Out-of-Home Care 2021Factors associated with post-college success for foster care alumni college graduates 2018My Path Towards Living on My Own: Voices of Youth Leaving Dutch Secure Residential Care 2016“Could an Increased Focus on Identity Development in the Provision of Children’s Services Help Shape Positive Outcomes for Care Leavers?” A Literature Review

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