The Influence of Perceived Social Support on Self-Reliance Preparedness Among Residential Youth : - Focusing on the Sequential Mediating Effects of Self-Efficacy and Grit

This study examined the effect of perceived social support on self-reliance preparedness among youth in residential care, focusing on the sequential mediating roles of self-efficacy and grit. A total of 117 adolescents from child welfare facilities in South Korea participated in the survey. Perceived social support was assessed across emotional, informational, evaluative, and material dimensions; self-efficacy included confidence, self-regulation, and task preference; and grit encompassed consistency of interest and perseverance. Using PROCESS Macro Model 6, results showed that perceived social support did not directly predict self-reliance preparedness. Instead, it had a significant indirect effect through a sequential pathway: higher social support increased self-efficacy, which enhanced grit, ultimately leading to improved self-reliance preparedness. This confirms the importance of internal psychological resources in supporting adolescents' transition to independent living. The findings highlight the need for youth support programs that integrate emotional and motivational development, beyond just material assistance.