The thesis presents the life transition of adolescents from The Residential Treatment Center Kranj (Vzgojni zavod Kranj) to independence. Since I spent all four years of my practical work in The Residential Treatment Center Kranj (Vzgojni zavod Kranj), I have dedicated my thesis to this topic.
In the overview of the issue, I have presented topics such as educational institutions, the preparation of adolescents living in an educational institution for independent living and their transition to independence.
I did research on how The Residential Treatment Center Kranj (Vzgojni zavod Kranj) prepares adolescents for independent living, as they leave the residential group at the age of 18. Also, what kind of support they receive from their social network when they leave, which is crucial for a big life change when adolescents enter independence. I have also explored how they experience the final period in the residential group, as this can be challenging for them. I have also been interested in what options they choose for their future life once they leave the residential group.
I have carried out a qualitative research, using a questionnaire method. I have used an interview guide, a measuring instrument containing 21 questions asking six adolescents from The Residential Treatment Center Kranj (Vzgojni zavod Kranj).
The results showed that The Residential Treatment Center Kranj’s (Vzgojni zavod Kranj) educational professionals prepare adolescents for an independent life through rules, order, and learning to take care of themselves and their property. They are encouraged in their personal development and prepared to be independent in tasks, saving money, schooling, organisation and relationships. The support they receive on their leave varies, citing support from educational professionals, their own support, support from relatives and the rest of their social network. There is a need for financial support from the social network. The results show that adolescents experience the leave in different ways, with both anxiety and joy. Adolescents are fed up because of the rigid timetable, rules and supervision in the residential treatment center. Uncertainties arise because of the unsettled family situation and the choice of options for life after the leave, caused by the schooling criteria which condition the requirements for living in youth housing.
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