PREPARATION FOR SOCIAL REINTEGRATION AMONG YOUNG GIRLS IN RESIDENTIAL CARE IN INDIA

Abstract

This study focuses on the preparation for social reintegration of young Indian girls about to leave their residential care homes. It assesses the level of preparation by capturing the perception of readiness of 100 girls in institutions: whether they expect to complete higher education, and whether they believe they have acquired such skills as searching for a job, managing finances, problem solving, and maintaining satisfactory relationships. It also explores the impact of different factors, such as the present age of the girls, their self-esteem, and the availability of support networks, on the preparation for their social reintegration. Overall, the findings revealed that the girls felt better prepared with life skills and access to housing after leaving care, but were not so hopeful about their psychological well-being and ability to access higher education, social support, employment, and financial independence. Factors such as age, educational qualifications, self-esteem, and availability of support while in care had a positive relationship with their preparation for social reintegration. Interestingly, the girls’ level of preparation varied significantly across the eight residential care homes studied. The study is intended to help address gaps in the existing literature and to play a significant role in informing future legislative decisions.