Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Human Services

Advisor

Catherine Heck

Abstract

AbstractYouth exiting the U.S. foster care system can experience a complicated process as well as lack of support and resources to help in their transition. Also, despite federal policies in place, these youth can face socioeconomic challenges that lead to homelessness. The purpose of this qualitative, hermeneutic, phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of homelessness of adults who age out of the foster care system without continued support when they turn 18. Social capital theory provided a theoretical foundation for the study. Participants were 10 individuals 18 years of age and over who exited out of foster care and experienced homelessness. Semistructured interviews were used to collect data. The themes that were derived from analysis of the interview data include (a) experiences of aging out, (b) differing quality of transition plan, (c) experiences of homelessness, (d) social support, (e) effect on mental health, and (f) education and employment outcomes. The findings reinforce that having connections to mental health support and other support systems that provide education, employment, and housing opportunities are important building blocks for youth aging out of foster care. Most importantly social change for this group is being able to connect and build trusting relationships all of which is highlighted by the concept of social capital theory. These efforts will not only provide and assistance these youth exiting from foster care but provide a network of resources that may give them a chance to build their foundation to move forward in becoming self-sufficient.

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