Successful Transitions of Runaway/Homeless Youth from Shelter Care

Authors: Nebbitt, Von; House, Laura; Thompson, Sanna; Pollio, David

Source: Journal of Child and Family Studies, Volume 16, Number 4, August 2007 , pp. 545-555(11)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Previous research indicates that runaway and homeless youth often achieve positive outcomes after shelter stays however few studies have examined how these outcomes are achieved. This study employs qualitative methods to explicate this phenomenon. Twenty-five providers and 21 youth from four shelters participated in this study. Youth were recruited who had completed shelter care and returned home for minimally six months. Multiple raters identified themes and created a conceptual model. While in shelter, youths experienced structure and freedom, and the family experienced respite. Once youth became involved in treatment, the family re-connected and the youth returned home. After returning home, youth and family become involved in follow-up services. Results from our study provide insight into the process through which runaway/homeless youth return home after a shelter stay. Our findings emphasize the need for continued change by all members of the family system, highlighting the need for continued intervention to maintain positive changes.

Keywords: Runaway youth; Homelessness; Resiliency; Shelter care; Family reunification

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10826-006-9105-2

Affiliations: 1: Email: vnebbitt_@howard.edu

Publication date: 2007-08-01