The Extent to Which Foster Care Extrinsic Indicators Predict Successful Transition into Adulthood

This quantitative research study used non-experimental, secondary data analysis to investigate foster youth successful transition into adulthood, specifically addressing the extent to which extrinsic environmental indicators predict foster youth successful transition into adulthood. The literature shows emancipated foster youth continue to experience adverse outcomes after foster care despite the changes in legislation, and the implementation of additional transitional living programs and supports. Datum collected for 82 current and emancipated foster youth 18 to 21 years of age from the National Youth in Transition Database (NYTD) Outcome File. The NYTD data are gathered by state agencies in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico using the National Youth in Transition Database Plus Survey. The NYTD Plus Survey gathers data in the areas of maintaining healthy relationships, employment status, housing status, health and wellness, work habits, and daily living activities of foster youth at age 17, 19, and 21. A multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to test the hypotheses and answer the question, is there a statistical relationship between the predictor variables as educational attainment, stable employment, stable housing, and positive relationships, and the outcome variable foster youth successful transition into adulthood as measured by the NYTD. Results provide insight into the antecedents of extrinsic environmental indicators in the context of foster youth transition into adulthood. Findings reveal stable employment as the most predictive of foster youth successful transition into adulthood contributing to 66.5% of the variation between transition and stable employment, and a 31% correlation between stable employment and foster youth successful transition into adulthood. The study found stable employment is the most significant predictor of foster youth successful transition into adulthood as measured by the NYTD. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]