Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

School of Social Work

First Reader/Committee Chair

Carolyn McAllister

Abstract

Foster youth transitioning into adulthood often confront a myriad of challenges stemming from limited social capital and unstable support systems. The transition out of foster care, particularly for Transitional Age Youth (TAY), is fraught with barriers including disconnection from familial ties, inadequate knowledge regarding higher education, financial instability, unemployment, and housing insecurity. In 2021, approximately 4,920 foster children aged out of the system, facing the option to participate in extended care programs designed to facilitate their transition into independent living. Despite these programs, many youths struggle to achieve self-sufficiency. Key legislation, including the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, and the Chafee Foster Care Independence Act, which established frameworks for support services tailored to the needs of TAY.

The theoretical frameworks guiding this research include trauma-informed and ecological systems theories, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of the trauma experienced by foster youth and the influence of various environmental systems on their development. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Independent Living Programs (ILPs) in California, identifying strengths and weaknesses within these services and their impact on the transition to independent living for former foster youth. Additionally, this research seeks to contribute valuable insights that could inform policy and practice, ultimately enhancing support for this vulnerable population.

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