Adaptation in emergent adulthood for persons with prior experience in residential youth care in Norway: an observational study.

backgroundThe adversities experienced by youth placed in Residential Youth Care (RYC) challenge their development through adolescence and into adulthood. Yet, we know little about how they adapt during the transition into emergent adulthood. Here, we examine their socioeconomic and civil status and psychosocial functioning, how they compare with peers, and whether there are systematic variations across sex and age.

methodsTen years after the initial assessment of 400 12-20-year-olds residing in RYC in Norway, we conducted a follow-up assessment when they were ages 22-30, enrolling 157 (52% response rate). Participants completed an online survey where socioeconomic and civil status were measured with multiple-choice items. Psychosocial functioning in terms of social relationships, perceived social support, and self-perception was measured with standard psychometric scales and quality of life (QOL) with two commonly used ratings. Trained professionals rated global psychosocial functioning on a standard scale based on completion of a semi-structured psychiatric interview. Descriptive statistics were used to inform about the adaptation in these targeted areas. Sex differences were tested with Chi

resultsCompared to those in the general population, young adults with prior experience with RYC attained lower education, employment, and income. They became parents more often and at an earlier age. They also reported on average lower global self-worth and QOL, and for the majority their global psychosocial functioning was rated as in need of clinical services. However, the quantity and quality of their social relationships were reported similar to peers. Sex differences were few, other than females were more likely to be in intimate relationships and have a child. Adaptation was not better for older participants in the sample age range.

conclusionsAddressing the elementary question, "How are these vulnerable individuals doing in general in emergent adulthood?" results imply that the answer is "Not so good." Social services need to consider how to improve interventions during childhood as well as in the transition when this group ages out of RYC to mitigate these negative long-term outcomes.