Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

School of Social Work

First Reader/Committee Chair

Dr. Emily Loveland, MSW, PhD

Abstract

This study examines rehabilitation outcomes among foster youth who are currently or were previously placed in Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Programs (STRTPs), also known as group homes. With more than 400,000 children are in foster care in the United States, and approximately 39,000–57,000 residing in group homes, limited research has explored why rehabilitation efforts in these settings often fall short. Existing literature emphasizes policy reforms, compliance, and placement outcomes under California’s Continuum of Care Reform, but gives less attention to youths lived therapeutic experiences and the consistency and quality of mental health services delivered within STRTPs. This study addresses this gap by examining the alignment between intended therapeutic services and actual service delivery in practice. It explores whether youth receive meaningful, individualized, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive care, and identifies systemic factors that may hinder effective rehabilitation. This research aims to highlight service gaps that influence rehabilitation and long-term well-being, with implications for social work practice, STRTP program development, and policy improvements in mental health services.

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