1. Objectifs

Intentions :
«The purpose of this chapter is to highlight theory that focuses on identity, emerging adulthood, and attachment and loss. All of these theories have direct application to better understanding young adults who age out of care.» (p. 10)

2. Méthode

Échantillon/Matériau :
Données documentaires diverses

Type de traitement des données :
Analyse théorique

3. Résumé

Analysis shows that «[y]outh aging out have little access to identity capital and may struggle with foreclosed identity, little sense of personal continuity, and an incomplete understanding of their familial and ethnic backgrounds. […] While challenges to identity also have their origins in preplacement experiences, they are exacerbated by the organization of care systems and gaps in services. Research suggests that youth from care lack positive role models and rarely interact with successful care leavers. They do not have access to information about their family history or cultural background. Placement resources do not provide opportunities for practicing decision-making, exercising personal agency, or exploring the ability to function independently because these environments may be too highly structured and too risk aversive. Services end too early, without any provision for relational continuity or a safety net of any kind.» (p. 19) «Current conceptualizations of permanency planning need to be revised to include ongoing relationships with family, irrespective of their parenting capacity or ability to act as a future placement resource. Longterm peer relationships, as well as continued relationships with natural mentors, should be supported.» (p. 26) Moreover, more «research is needed that explores the connections between identity status and attachment outcomes for youth in care and the relationship of these processes to adjustment in adulthood.» (p. 27)