Adolescents’ attitudes toward educational and employment status after leaving residential care

This study examines adolescents’ attitudes toward education and employment following their departure from residential care (RC) centers. Data were collected from adolescents currently residing in RC centers through a structured questionnaire, which addressed four key dimensions: (i) negative attitudes toward further schooling, (ii) passive attitudes toward job searching, (iii) active job searching and (iv) aspirations for independence. A total of 95 participants took part in the study. Overall, the findings indicate that adolescents generally do not exhibit negative attitudes toward continuing their education. However, female participants demonstrated greater motivation to pursue further schooling compared to their male counterparts, and adults showed a higher readiness for continued education than minors. Respondents also expressed a strong intent to seek employment after leaving RC centers, rejecting reliance on social support. They displayed a preference for securing stable, permanent jobs aligned with their training. Additionally, the participants reported high aspirations for independent living, including securing well-paying jobs, and expressed a strong commitment to achieving these goals. Notably, this aspiration was more pronounced among minors.