100761: Rethinking the Transition From "Ward of the Court" to Adulthood

About the Course:

Youth who transition out of foster care are often overlooked and unprepared for a life outside of the child welfare system. As youth begin to grow up in the foster care system, they are encouraged to move toward the goal of self-sufficiency. This article examines the idea of self-sufficiency as it relates to youth transitioning from the foster care system and proposes a different approach to the state of transition, an approach called interdependent living. Through this examination, the authors suggest a way to reshape practice approaches by emphasizing the values of interdependence, connection and collaboration. Together these values lead to an empowerment model of practice for youth who transition from foster care. COURSE SYLLABUS I. Introduction II. Independent Living: Current Knowledge III. Redefining Independent Living IV. Reshaping Independent Living Practice V. Recommendations VI. Summary and Conclusions

Journal/Publisher:

Families in Society (Alliance for Children and Families)

Publication Date:

2003/ Vol. 84, No. 2

Authors

Debra M. Ortega, PhD; Forest NewHeart, MSW; Families in Society (journal); Jennifer Propp, MSW

About the Authors:

School of Social Welfare University of Kansas

School of Social Welfare University of Kansas

School of Social Welfare University of Kansas

Recommended For:

This course is recommended for social workers, counselors, psychologists, and other human services and behavioral health professionals who seek knowledge about transitions out of foste care. It is appropriate for participants with all levels of knowledge about the topic.

Course Objectives:

1. describe drawbacks of defining independence as the mark of successful youth transition out of foster care

2. identify a different approach to the process of youth transition

3. describe some ways practice would be reshaped by the interdependent/empowerment approach to youth transitions