READINESS FOR INDEPENDENCE - A STUDY OF YOUTH IN FOSTER-CARE

This descriptive research was conducted to better inform policy makers about the characteristics of the population that is eligible for Inde pendent Living skills, in order to better target appropriate intervent ions. This report reviews data on the skill level and readiness for in dependence of adolescents who are placed in the substitute care system in Washington State. They have not received specialized Independent L iving skills services but are eligible for them. Findings suggest that almost half of the sample exhibit serious behavior problems and one i n four utilize multiple service systems. They lag behind in educationa l attainment, and by the time they emancipate, most of them have exper ienced employment. Youth are more optimistic about their ability to ma nage financial resources than their caretakers assess them to be. Yout h also perceive relatives and foster parents as ongoing resource peopl e. Remedial training to improve youth's emancipation skills is recomme nded to better bridge them into adulthood.