2023 Volume 23 Pages 1-13
Independent living support is among the most important interventions for children and youth in alternative care. However, previous research has yet to consider independent living support based on the perspective of children and youth, although it has been pointed out that support planning reflecting their voices is critically important. In this study, semi-structured interviews with 15 care leavers was conducted to address the research question, “What kind of independent living support do youth care leavers feel they need?” An analysis equivalent to the KJ method was conducted, resulting in the identification of 11 categories and 44 concepts regarding support during the respective “In Care,” “Leaving Care,” and “After Care” phases of care. Specifically, the youth considered it necessary to have good relationships with their caregivers who serve as role models, and be provided with psychological care appropriate to each phase of care. Furthermore, the youth stressed that independent living support appropriate to each phase of care should be provided, rather than simply providing support immediately before leaving care.
