This research explores dyadic retrospective perspectives of young people previously in care and their carers to gain an understanding of how relationships formed during foster placements were maintained following the transition to independence. Whilst existing literature explores vanous outcomes of being in foster care, the evidence base is limited regarding foster carers providing ongoing support for young people leaving their care. With social support imperative for this 'vulnerable population' factors affecting positive relationships should be considered. Together with this, there is limited research investigating the impact that relationships in care .have on present and future relationships and how components of care have affected current life for those previously in care. The present study conducted in-depth individual interviews with five young people who had previously been in foster care and their carer/s who they had maintained contact with and described positive relationships with. The cross-sectional research employed a qualitative approach using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (lP A) to make sense of the lived experiences of young people and carers. Analysis of the data yielded three main themes for young people; Building foundations, Belonging and Life as we know it. Three main themes emerged from the carers data; Being a parent, Adjusting to life together and Watching them grow. Results of this research highlighted similarities and differences both within and between the dyads. The findings increased the understanding of factors that young people and carers believe are imperative to forming successful relationships in care and maintaining these when they leave. Results obtained provide an insight regarding aspects of care and exiting care that require further facilitation from services and professionals involved in order to assist these transitions.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:583358 |
| Date | January 2012 |
| Creators | Freeman, Claire |
| Publisher | University of London |
| Source Sets | Ethos UK |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
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