Exploring social supports created and maintained by transition-age Youth: A thematic analysis

Background: Youth exiting foster care face significant challenges in their transition to adulthood, yet few studies have explored the social supports that may help them navigate this period. Objective: This study asked three research questions including: How do transition-age youth (TAY) (1) create and (2) maintain social connections; and (3) How do social connections support TAY in emerging adulthood? Participants and Setting: This study included 16 Transition-Age Youth (TAY), aged 18–25 years, who had recently left foster care or were receiving extended services in one Southeastern state. Methods: Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and analyzed with thematic analysis. Findings: Several key findings were identified. First, themes identified that: (1) TAY are self-driven to create and leverage social connections; (2) TAY build connections through formal support systems; and (3) TAY value peer-led connections, advocacy, and support. Second, themes explained that TAY maintained social support networks and included: (1) TAY navigate system barriers to maintain relationships with their family of origin; (2) TAY are motivated and purposeful in maintaining relationships; and (3) TAY maintain relationships that were formalized through their foster care experience. Third, themes suggested that formal and informal social supports are critical as: (1) Formal structures provide support that help TAY emerge into adulthood; and (2) A sense of belonging provides anchors and purpose for TAY. Conclusion: TAY utilize various strengths and strategies to create and maintain social supports. Moreover, results demonstrate the importance of formal supports to assist TAY in emerging into adulthood.