Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

School of Social Work

First Reader/Committee Chair

Yawen, Li

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Children in foster care face significant challenges, and their transition to independent living presents even greater difficulties, such as securing housing, accessing healthcare, and achieving financial independence. Although recent policy reforms, such as increased emphasis on family reunification and support services, have aimed to improve the outcomes of foster care, alumni of the system continue to face disproportionately high rates of mental health disorders, substance abuse, and social instability. Existing literature highlights the significant barriers foster youth encounter during and after their time in care, yet there remains a critical gap in understanding the experiences of these individuals before and after emancipation. Specifically, little is known about the coping mechanisms employed by foster care alumni post-emancipation and the factors that influence their ability to navigate life after leaving care. This study sought to explore these experiences, with particular focus on identifying the psychosocial and environmental influences that shape the well-being of foster youth both during their time in care and after they transition to independent adulthood. Through this investigation, the research aims to inform policy and intervention strategies that better support foster youth throughout their journey to adulthood and mitigate the long-term consequences of their experiences in care.

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the experiences of foster care alumni and the coping strategies they employ after leaving the system. It specifically examined the emotional, cognitive, and physical impacts of foster care and evaluates the effectiveness of post-care interventions to support the transition to adulthood.

Methodology: A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing snowball sampling to interview 8-10 professionals in California who have worked with foster care-involved individuals for at least one year. These professionals provided insights into the coping mechanisms employed by foster care alumni and the gaps in services and resources that may hinder their post-care transition.

Results: The study revealed that foster care youth experience significant emotional, psychological, and practical challenges at each stage of their journey. Before entering care, they often face neglect and unstructured home environments. While in care, systemic instability and inconsistent services disrupt foster youth’s development and contribute to their struggles. After aging out of the system, foster alumni often feel unprepared for independent living and the loss of support networks heightens their transition challenges. These insights underscore the need for continuous, long-term support to help foster youth navigate these transitions and prepare for life after care. The study also found that foster care alumni commonly utilize problem-focused, emotion-focused, and social coping strategies. Those with access to stable resources such as housing and mental health support tend to have better outcomes. Additionally, a lack of adequate support, particularly in areas like healthcare and social connections, increases the difficulties these youth face after aging out of care.

Discussion/Implications: The findings highlight the importance of comprehensive support systems, including mentorship, community-based programs, and trauma-informed interventions. These strategies are critical for addressing the emotional, cognitive, and physical health needs of foster youth. Social work practice should advocate for stronger transition planning, expanded access to resources, and systemic policy changes to improve the outcomes for foster youth aging out of the system. Additionally, future research should focus on exploring the long-term effectiveness of existing post-care interventions and further investigate the unique challenges faced by youth from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

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