Left Behind in Lockdown: A Scoping Review of COVID‐19's Impact on the Lives of Transition‐Age Foster Youth

ABSTRACT This scoping review asked: What is known about the scope and nature of research on the COVID‐19 pandemic and its effects on older youth with foster care experience in the United States, including the types of studies, samples and outcomes examined? Guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute framework and PRISMA‐ScR, we searched 11 databases and grey literature sources (October 2024 to January 2025). Eligible studies were United States based, published from 2020 onward and included primary data on foster youth or relevant professionals. Thirty‐two studies met inclusion criteria. Most studies were descriptive or cross‐sectional, reflecting early phases of the pandemic. Mapping of study characteristics showed variation in design, sample composition and focus. Still, descriptive findings consistently pointed to disruptions in employment, education, housing, mental health and social relationships. Subgroups—including youth of colour, LGBTQ youth and females—were disproportionately affected. Although largely descriptive, this evidence base reveals where systems most often failed foster youth during COVID‐19 and highlights domains most in need of reform. Findings suggest the value of expanding housing and educational supports, improving access to mental health care and embedding rapid‐response mechanisms for both crisis and non‐crisis times. By mapping what is known and naming what remains uncertain, this review provides a foundation for future research and policy action to ensure foster youth are not left behind.