A comparative analysis of protective and promotive factors of at-risk youth in the community and in residential care settings in Israel

In this study, we explored the protective and promotive factors (e.g., life skills, hope, and mentoring relationships) among at-risk youth in the community in comparison to those in residential care. Our aim was to understand the mechanisms contributing to their resilience. The participants consisted of 373 at-risk adolescents aged 16–19, either placed in out-of-home care or living with their biological parents and receiving community-based treatment in Israel. The results revealed notable differences between youth in residential care and those in the community. Specifically, participants in residential care were significantly less likely to report having a mentor and showed lower levels of life skills. Through multi-group structural equation modeling (SEM), we uncovered that life skills played a mediating role in connecting youths' mentoring relationships with their hope within both groups. The discussion suggests the importance of considering both contextual and personal factors as integral components of intervention programs. This approach is applicable to both care settings and community programs designed for at-risk youth.