Childhood maltreatment, subsequent health, and quality of life in young adults with a history of residential youth care

Adolescents placed in residential youth care (RYC) often have complex histories of severe and prolonged exposure to maltreatment and abuse. While foster homes are the preferred alternative for youth in out-of-home care in Norway, residential care becomes a viable option when the more traditional family-based living arrangements are unable to provide the necessary care. Although residential care provides support and protection, the transition into care may introduce additional stressors into an adolescent’s life. These individuals navigate intricate social relationships whilst coping with their past (and often ongoing) maltreatment experiences. Childhood maltreatment is associated with physical and mental health problems and poor quality of life. Many also face social and educational challenges that extend into adulthood. Thus, the effects of childhood maltreatment are long-lasting, both for the individual and for society. More research on the wellbeing and health of this vulnerable population is important to ensure that policies and practices keep improving, providing these individuals with the highest quality of care. This study aims to investigate the frequency and timing of different childhood maltreatment experiences among young adults with a history of RYC. Using the comprehensive Maltreatment and Abuse Chronology of Exposure (MACE) we will explore if exposure to different types of maltreatment at different ages in childhood is associated with quality of life and health-related outcomes in adulthood. 

This PhD project is a part the two-wave longitudinal study VINGO (Norwegian link) which examines the life trajectories of young adults with a history of RYC.