Transition to Adulthood for Vulnerable Youths: A Review of Research and Implications for Policy

Adolescents aging out of the child welfare system are particularly vulnerable to poor health, undereducation, unemployment, and homelessness; yet, they have not received sufficient research or policy attention. This article reviews what is known about these young people and the impact of independent living programming on youth outcomes. It also examines research on life transition, resilience, and social support. This research underscores the importance of continued family and community support to foster individual development, even after young people leave home. This article identifies from this research broader ideas for helping vulnerable youths transition successfully.