In my research, I focused on the transition of adolescents from residential treatment centres to independent living and on the role of support systems in their reintegration into society. In the theoretical part, I first defined residential treatment centres in Slovenia, their purpose and functions, and presented the characteristics of adolescents placed in them. I described the reasons for placement, admission procedures, types of interventions, and the importance of psychosocial support during their stay. Particular attention was devoted to the preparation for discharge, the factors contributing to successful integration, and the challenges adolescents face when re-entering society. Furthermore, I examined the importance of family, institutional, and peer support, as well as the impact of stigmatization on the reintegration process.
My research is qualitative, exploratory, and empirical. As a research instrument, I used interview guidelines and conducted in-depth interviews with adolescents who had lived in residential treatment centres and with social workers employed at centres for social work and residential treatment centres. The population consists of adolescents after leaving residential care and social workers who support them in the process of becoming independent. The sample was non-probability and convenience-based, including adolescents of different ages and social workers experienced in working with this population.
The results show that adolescents often experience feelings of uncertainty, loneliness, and fear of independence after leaving residential care. Emotional support, trusting relationships with social workers, continuous professional assistance, and the possibility of a gradual transition to independent living play a crucial role in successful reintegration. The key challenges identified include a lack of suitable housing options, difficulties in accessing education and employment, and limited systemic support after discharge from the centre.
I found that successful reintegration of adolescents after leaving residential care requires the establishment of comprehensive and long-term support mechanisms that connect the work of various institutions, especially centres for social work, residential treatment centres, and non-governmental organizations. Continuous psychosocial support, access to safe housing, and the strengthening of life skills are essential for enabling young people to gradually achieve independence and social inclusion.
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