A holistic analysis of the effects on tangible domains of a multi-domain independent living program

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study explored the effectiveness of a multi-domain Independent Living Program (ILP) in providing services to older foster youth transitioning to adulthood in a largely white sample. The study involved analysis of 119 Independent Living (IL) plans of 97 current and former foster youth between the ages of 14 and 21. The plans focused on seven domains central to successful transition to adulthood. A checklist of goals for all seven domains of the ILP was used to determine which goals were focused on, and the former IL coordinator and staff determined if goals were achieved. This paper addressed results regarding tangible domains of education, employment, housing, and life skills. Results showed that the ILP was successful in life skills training in areas such as budgeting and homemaking skills, permanency, high school graduation, seeking employment, and use of career services. It showed weaknesses in the areas of setting long-term goals, pursuit of postsecondary education, and life skills such as driving. Future research should involve randomized control trials of ILPs or more diverse samples.