Name and surname: Matej Miklavčič
Thesis title: Young people's challenges in the transition from group homes to independent living
Mentor: doc. dr. Primož Rakovec
Location: Škofja Loka
Abstract: In my thesis, I explore the challenges faced by young people during the transition from group homes to independent living, how they are prepared for this transition and what kind of support they receive. I am also looking at the role of social workers and other professionals in this process and what methods they use to support young people. I wonder how adolescents experience the transition from institutional care to independent living and what challenges they face in doing so. In addition, I investigate how prepared they are for independent living and what skills they acquire while living in group homes. .In the theoretical part I write about what the transition to adulthood entails, what are the characteristics of young people living in group homes, and what role these groups play in their development. I also explore the importance of life skills acquisition and social support in the transition to independent living. I also touch on the theories and models that describe this transition. As part of the research, I conducted interviews with six teenagers from a group home in Škofja Loka. I openly and axially encode the data and present the results. I relate the results to the literature. My research concluded that despite the skills and support they have acquired, adolescents still face a number of challenges in transitioning to independent living. Lack of practical life skills, financial management and insufficient preparation for the reality of independent living are among the main obstacles. Adolescents face emotional and social challenges such as independence, low self-esteem and difficulties in establishing new social networks. Experts stress the need for more structured and long-term support to help young people make this transition. The findings suggest that successful transition of adolescents from home groups to independent living requires a holistic approach that includes both emotional and physical support. I propose the development of long-term care programmes that would allow young people to adapt for a longer period and acquire the skills they need to live independently. It would also be useful to establish stronger support networks to provide ongoing support to young people even after they leave institutional care. My research has shown that the transition from housing groups to independent living is a complex process that requires greater attention and support from social workers and other professionals.
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