Challenges of Emerging Adulthood among Youth out of Foster Care

Abstract

Youth out of foster care can face various problems related to finding a housing, unemployment, low educational attainmentor lack of interpersonal relationships. The aim of the research was to studythe problems of youth out of foster carein Georgia.Within the qualitative studysemi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted. The findings indicated that youth out of foster carefelt unprepared for life and face some financial, social and psychological challenges which make the transition to adulthood more problematic. They have a problem of unstable housing, employment and community integration.In this criticalperiod of transition, social workers are responsible for supporting adolescence. The study identified very low involvement of the social worker during preparation to age out of foster care. Social workers must continue to work with young people, help thembuild relationships and positive support network. It's recommended to expandfoster care services to the youthwith the aimsof growinglearning and accommodationstability, and employment services.Policy makers should consider housing opportunities for youth out of foster care. Youngsters out of foster carerequire protective preparation and planning, which will help adolescents make this transitioninto adulthood more flexible.