Girls Leaving Care: Establishing Relational Agency Through Relational Responsiveness in Out‐of‐Home Placements and Aftercare

ABSTRACT This study offers the concepts of relational agency that place the development of agency and self‐efficacy beliefs in the context of interpersonal relationships. Twenty‐two semi‐structured interviews with care‐leavers were analysed through a six‐stage thematic analysis process. The following four themes emerged: (1) the perception of the placement as a successful turning point, (2) relationships formed during the stay as opportunities to practice relational agency, (3) experiences of leaving the village and applying relational agency and (4) insights regarding the village support program, including awareness of relational agency as a necessary skill. Participants reported significant personal growth, improved self‐awareness and better decision‐making skills resulting from their experiences. Findings suggest that the facility provided a safe and nonjudgmental environment allowing residents to develop relational responsiveness and agency. Discussion emphasizes the need for theoretical understanding as well as the applied development of relational agency. The study's limitations and suggestions for future research are also discussed.