Peer-centered practice: a theoretical framework for intervention with young people in and from care

Area of Science:

• Social Work
• Sociology
• Psychology

Background:

• Youth exiting foster care face significant challenges during their transition to adulthood.
• Transitional services often lack robust support systems for maintaining social connections.
• Social isolation can impede the social mobility and well-being of care-leavers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a conceptual framework for integrating peer support into transitional services for care-leavers.
• To examine the unique circumstances and needs of youth exiting the foster care system.
• To propose an evidence-informed strategy for enhancing support networks for this population.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual framework development based on existing literature.
• Analysis of the social networks of youth transitioning from care.
• Review of evidence-informed practices in social support and transitional services.

Main Results:

• Peers can be effectively engaged as a central component of transitional services.
• Understanding social networks reveals opportunities for strengthening existing ties and fostering new connections.
• Weak tie connections are crucial for facilitating social mobility and access to resources.

Conclusions:

• A peer-centered approach offers a promising model for supporting care-leavers.
• Interventions should focus on leveraging and expanding the social networks of youth exiting care.
• Strengthening social capital through peer engagement can improve life outcomes for care-leavers.