A Single Case Study on the Independence Process of Out-of-Home Female Adolescents : Focusing on Romantic Relationships

This study aimed to examine the independence process of out-of-home female adolescent, focusing on their experiences in romantic relationships. To do this, a single case study method was employed to conduct an in-depth exploration of a female out-of-home adolescent undergoing the independence process. This approach enhances the understanding of specific phenomena, issues, and situations while providing rich information about the case. The findings categorized the independence process of out-of-home female youth into three main themes: ‘embarking on a harsh journey of independence,’ ‘needing someone to rely on,’ and ‘dreaming of true self-reliance.’ The category ‘embarking on a harsh journey of independence’ was further divided into the subthemes ‘blindly stepping into the world’ and ‘standing on the edge of a cliff.’ The category ‘needing someone to rely on’ included the subthemes ‘unable to live without a boyfriend’, ‘daliy life shattered by the pain of breakup.’ and ‘realizing that I was the one ruining my relationships’. The category ‘dreaming of true self-reliance’ comprised the subthemes ’breaking free from the past and living in reality.‘ The psychological deficiency and deprivation felt by those who carry the wounds inflicted by their parents in a reality where they are alone led them to form continuously unstable relationships with others. This dynamic acted as both a positive and negative factor in their process of becoming independent. However, despite these experiences, the participants continued to grow. Although they will continue to live precarious lives in an unstable state, the process is not entirely dark. This study is significant as it explores the independence process of out-of-home female adolescent who must navigate life on their own, using their experiences in romantic relationships as a lens.