University of Manitoba, 125 pages.
This study was conducted to add to the knowledge of the lived experience of youth with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) transitioning to independence from the care of a child welfare agency. Few studies have heard the voices of youth with FASD as they are leaving care. A better understanding of the experiences of youth with FASD transitioning out of care is critical for the development of appropriate supports and services to meet their needs. While several studies have confirmed the risk of deleterious outcomes for this population, this study is unique in its effort to hear directly from the youth themselves – what they need to manage the transition to adulthood successfully. These insights can inform policy development and service delivery, as well as set the stage for future research.