Social Support and Social Networks of Young People in Residential Care and Post-Care: Conceptual Frameworks and Theoretical Insights

This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the key conceptual and theoretical aspects of social support and social networks for young people in residential care and during their transition to independent living. It distinguishes between formal support and informal support, while also exploring other dimensions of support in light of Tardy's conceptualization, such as direction, perception, types of support, and the breadth and complexity of social networks. Utilizing frameworks such as the life course perspective, convoy model, social ecological theory, and interdependence theory, this chapter explores the support needs of young people in residential care settings (RCSs), highlighting the various sources and types of support available and the mechanisms that connect social support to well-being. Additionally, it addresses the unique challenges these young people face in seeking and accepting support, as well as the negative aspects of social support they often encounter, including feelings of disappointment, intrusiveness, and conflict. Finally, the chapter reviews interventions designed to expand the social networks of young people in residential care and after leaving care, emphasizing the critical importance of these efforts in enhancing outcomes for these young people.