Interpersonal Strengths and Family Involvement for Adolescents Transitioning from Therapeutic Residential Care: An Exploratory Study

This study explored two resiliency areas, interpersonal strengths and family involvement, in adolescent transitions from Therapeutic Residential Care (TRC). Unfortunately, gains made by adolescents in therapeutic residential programs are often not sustained during the aftercare phase due to, among other factors, lack of family involvement and lack of interpersonal strengths. Few studies have examined specific strengths associated with successful and unsuccessful transition from residential care. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to explore the relationship of interpersonal strengths and family involvement that had been nurtured in TRC for successful and unsuccessful transition trajectories. Results reveal that longitudinal measurements of interpersonal strengths and family involvement as measured by the Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale (BERS-2) are indicators of post-treatment transition success. Recommendations include helping youth and parents realistically understand the challenges of transitioning out of TRC and jointly developing comprehensive post-TRC transition plans with appropriate post-discharge check-ins.