Experiences of Independent Living among Female Youths after Leaving Out-of- Home Care in South Korea: A Phenomenological Study

Experiences of Independent Living among Female Youths after Leaving Out-of- Home Care in South Korea: A Phenomenological Study | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Article Experiences of Independent Living among Female Youths after Leaving Out-of- Home Care in South Korea: A Phenomenological Study Dabok Noh, Eunyeong Kim, Goun Kim This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4227212/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Youths in out-of-home care residing in alternative living arrangements in Korea must leave the placement by their 25th birthday. In the transition to independence from out-of-home care, they often encounter significant financial and psychological difficulties. This study employed a qualitative phenomenological methodology using Colaizzi’s phenomenological data analysis to extract, organize, and analyze the data. In-depth interviews were conducted with ten female youths living independently after being discharged from youth shelters. Unstructured and open-ended questions were asked to collect clear and sufficient descriptions regarding participants’ lived experiences of female youths after leaving out-of-home care. Our analyses revealed four themes in transitioning from out-of-home care to independent living related to their experiences of beginning to stand alone; becoming a grown-up suddenly; needing a helping hand to deal with the emptiness in life; and hope for the future. Out-of-home youths struggled and needed help from supportive policies and institutions to achieve financial, social, and psychological stability while becoming independent. These findings should encourage practitioners and policymakers to strengthen and expand tailored and long-term support systems for successful independent living for out-of-home youths in Korea. Health sciences/Health care/Health policy Health sciences/Health care/Health services Health sciences/Health care/Public health independent living out-of-home care phenomenological study qualitative study youth 1. Introduction Out-of-home youths in Korea refer to those who have left their homes and guardians due to family conflict, abuse, violence, neglect, family dissolution, runaway, or other reasons, and consequently require social protection and support [ 1 ]. Out-of-home care provides these youths with protection, support, and alternative residences, such as foster care, group homes, youth shelters, and other specialized and alternative care settings. Youths must leave their out-of-home care placement after they turn 18 and no later than their 25th birthday [ 2 ], which coincides with the transition from adolescence to adulthood [ 3 ]. In other words, these youths must overcome the challenges of transitioning from care to independence and the typical challenges of adolescence to early adulthood. Young adults experience significant changes and challenges, such as identity exploration; instability in love, relationships, and work; feelings of being in between adolescence and adulthood; and mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression [ 4 ]. Youths leaving out-of-home care placement often encounter significant financial and psychological difficulties after leaving care despite preparing for independence [ 5 – 7 ]. Previous studies have reported that they struggle with financial challenges related to finding and maintaining employment, managing their finances, and housing instability [ 6 ], along with psychological issues such as loneliness, despair, and suicidal ideation [ 5 ]. Youths in out-of-home care, particularly those residing in youth shelters, have been reported to be vulnerable. They were found to have significantly lower levels of social support, life satisfaction, happiness, resilience, and self-efficacy and higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to youths in group homes [ 8 ]. This finding is attributed to the fact that youths residing in youth shelters left their homes during crises in their adolescence and received immediate and short-term care in youth shelters. By contrast, those in group homes have been placed since their childhood and have been exposed to more structured and long-term care. The characteristics of youth shelter residents who receive limited out-of-home care over a relatively short period may contribute to lower levels of preparedness for independence [ 9 , 10 ]. There is a substantial body of research on the experiences of youths transitioning out of group homes [ 6 , 11 , 12 ], care institutions [ 13 , 14 ], and foster homes [ 7 , 15 ]; however, studies focusing on the transition experiences of youths leaving youth shelters is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the independent living experiences of female youths from their perspectives after leaving youth shelters. The study’s results contribute to developing effective support services to facilitate the successful transition into independent living and adulthood among youth shelter residents. 2. Materials and Methods 2.1. Design This study used the descriptive phenomenological approach suggested by Colaizzi [ 16 ] to understand and describe the meaning and essence of independent living experiences for female youths after leaving youth shelters. 2.2. Sampling and Recruitment The participants were ten female youths aged 18–24 living independently after being discharged from youth shelters in S city in Korea. A purposive sampling method was conducted to select informants who had experienced independent living as youths and were willing to share their experiences and explain their rich experiences clearly, aligning with the subject and purpose of the study. The researchers requested cooperation from the local youth shelters and recommendations of individuals who had transitioned to independent living after leaving the shelters because the informants were more known to shelter staff than to the researchers. The researchers subsequently contacted the recommended individuals to recruit them as informants. 2.3. Data Collection Individual in-depth interviews were conducted between December 2022 and May 2023 with each participating female youth, lasting approximately one to one-and-a-half hours. The interviews were conducted in a quiet space to ensure privacy and comfort for participants and the interviewer. Interview questions were developed by two researchers and approved by the shelter directors. The interview began with unstructured and open-ended questions such as, “Tell me about the process of becoming independent after leaving the youth shelter.” To collect detailed descriptions from the participants and understand their descriptions, we used additional open-ended questions such as: "What happened at work or school after leaving the youth shelter?"; "What difficulties did you face while transitioning out of the youth shelter into independent living?"; "What did you think or feel when you experienced difficulties?"; "What was the driving force behind overcoming these difficulties?"; "Tell me about a person or institution that has helped you the most in becoming independent"; "What do you think when you look back on the time you have had since leaving the youth shelter?"; and "Is there anything else you would like to say about independent living?" Clarifying questions were asked to confirm the specific events they experienced and their thoughts and emotions. All interviews were transcribed after data collection, and the transcribed data were coded independently by the two authors. After each interview, we compared the similarities and differences with previously analyzed data. Interviews were conducted until no new information, codes, or themes were generated. We determined data saturation through several discussions with qualitative researchers and the shelter director. Data collection was completed with the 10th participant because the content yielded repetitive information compared to previous interviews, indicating data saturation [ 17 ]. 2.4. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the shelter directors and the Institutional Review Board of XX University (No. XXX-XXX). Informed consent was obtained from all subjects involved in the study. The information sheet included the contents of the study, procedures, anonymity, confidentiality, risks and protection, participants' rights, the possibility of withdrawing consent, a record in audio, and compensation. The collected data were kept anonymous, stored in encrypted files for security, and were accessible only to the researchers. After completion of the study, the data would be stored for three years. After this time, related data would be permanently and irretrievably deleted and destroyed. The participants were given a gift card. 2.5. Data Analysis This study was analyzed using Colaizzi’s [ 16 ] phenomenological research method. The design determines the meaning of the participant’s lived experience and states the nature of the phenomenon of independent living experiences. Colaizzi’s method consists of seven steps for data analysis. First, the interview transcripts were read repeatedly to obtain an overall sense of the participants’ experiences. Second, significant statements were extracted by selecting meaningful sentences or phrases related to the phenomenon of independent living experiences. Third, significant statements were formulated with meanings composed in the researcher’s language. Fourth, theme clusters and themes were aggregated by grouping similar items within the constructed meaning. Fifth, the phenomenon's essence was described thoroughly to provide an integrated explanation of the subject. Sixth, the fundamental structure of the phenomenon was described by integrating its common aspects. Seventh, the essential structure of the phenomenon in the study was validated, and the analysis was completed. This study used the MAXQDA 10 software (VERBI Software GmbH, Berlin, Germany) for coding and management. 2.6. Rigor Following Lincoln and Guba's [ 18 ] framework for ensuring research rigor, we ensured this study's credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability. The interviewer started with open-ended questions to enhance credibility and maintain a neutral and non-judgmental position. As one of the authors, the interviewer had diverse experiences as a youth professional in youth shelters and received qualitative research training. We conducted regular peer debriefings with other researchers during the process analysis. To enhance transferability, the cooperator in the local youth shelters recommended participants who provided detailed statements about their independent living experiences. We held regular meetings to discuss the coding process and key concepts. Finally, we confirmed that data saturation was reached when no new codes emerged. To enhance dependability, we prepared a detailed data collection process. Researchers recorded all the processes and strictly adhered to the procedures. We analyzed the fundamental structure, working out, and inquiries with the shelter directors to ensure field data dependability. The results were prepared by quoting the participants’ words verbatim to enhance conformability. Consensus decisions were made by balancing individual potential biases through field notes, memos, and the researchers' reflections to verify the collected data. 3. Results Participants were all women aged 18–24 years. They lived alone, with their partner, or with friends. Their periods of independent living after being discharged from youth shelters varied, ranging from five months to five years (Table 1 ). We extracted 18 formulated meanings from the interview data and categorized them into eight clusters, which were integrated into four themes (Table 2 ). Table 1 Participants’ profile Age (years) Education level Residence type Length of independent living 1 18 Dropped out of high school Living alone 1 year 2 24 High school graduate Living with a partner 4 years 3 22 High school graduate Living alone 5 months 4 22 High school graduate Living alone 6 months 5 18 Dropped out of high school Living alone 3 years, 5 months 6 23 Currently enrolled in college Living alone 5 years 7 21 Graduation from college Living with a friend 4 months 8 20 High school graduate Living with a partner 1 year, 2 months 9 24 High school graduate Living with a friend 1 year 10 20 Currently enrolled in college Living alone 1 year, 10 months Table 2 Themes and theme clusters of independent living experienced by youths after leaving out-of-home care Formulated meaning Theme cluster Theme Independence led to isolation Psychological chaos rather than freedom Beginning to stand alone Turmoil in interpersonal relationships Feeling powerless in life Financial hardship that pushes them over the edge Harsh realities of independence Facing difficulties in the workplace Desperate struggle to survive Responsibility for their own life Becoming a grown-up suddenly Resolve and make decisions by themselves Enduring and accepting their circumstances Refraining from the temptation Different life than before leaving the out-of-home care Self-management Need help from good adults Others’ help is desperately needed Needs a helping hand to deal with the emptiness in life Need help from support organizations Visiting support organizations for help Asking for help Having psychological counseling A desire for a stable livelihood Dreams of a stable life Hope for the future A desire for a normal family Setting up future goals Dreams of growth Moving toward the goals 3.1. Theme 1. Beginning to Stand Alone 3.1.1. Psychological Chaos Rather than Freedom Participants who left youth shelters anticipated attaining freedom and personal privacy. However, the transition from out-of-home care to independence brought about unexpected psychological chaos. While residing in the shelters, they shared their lives with fellow youths and shelter staff. However, they felt isolated upon beginning the independence journey and living independently. Although they established secure relationships with shelter staff during their time in shelters, the transition towards independence brought changes in interpersonal dynamics, leading to feelings of betrayal, emotional wounds, and turmoil in interpersonal relationships. Experiencing psychological chaos, they felt powerlessness in life. When I was in the shelter, I wanted a quiet place. I wanted my privacy protected. After becoming independent, it’s strange, too quiet, and I can’t adapt to it. When I see the ceiling of the empty room, I feel so sad and lonely. It seems like I am all alone in the world. (Participant 10) Once I go out, I need to spend money, so I usually stay at home, and then I feel trapped. It’s just kind of frustrating and annoying. (Participant 4) I realized that relationships could derail my life. I was recently betrayed by somebody, and I learned painfully that I should not easily trust anyone. (Participant 5) When it was too hard, I thought, “What is the point of living life this way?” It was so difficult to hold on to life, but I was not courageous enough to end my life. (Participant 6) 3.1.2. Harsh Realities of Independence As the participants transitioned from the shelter toward independence, they experienced harsh realities. They experienced financial burdens and distress when they had to manage housing, meals, and daily living expenses independently. They also experienced difficulties in the workplace during their transition to independence. When I had financial trouble, I felt like I was pushed over the edge. After paying the rent, I had no money left to live. I had to take out a loan and work part-time jobs. It was so hard. The shelter had provided me with food and a place to sleep. After becoming independent, I had no money to buy food. I also had to pay rent for a place to sleep, which was the biggest stress. (Participant 6) When I was working as a nurse aide in a clinic, there were age gaps among those I worked with, and there was no one my age, making things difficult because there was no one I could talk to with ease. They were also mean to me in some ways. (Participant 3) 3.2. Theme 2. Becoming a Grown-up Suddenly 3.2.1. Responsibility for Their Own Life The participants suddenly had to become adults and take responsibility for their lives. They had to work various part-time jobs to sustain their basic livelihoods. Facing various challenges in independent living, they had to resolve their problems and make decisions without the help of adults around them, experiencing difficulties along the way. While experiencing negative thoughts and despair in these challenging situations, the participants ultimately endured and accepted their circumstances. My friends call me the king of part-time jobs. I worked at a restaurant, a factory, a fast-food store, and a cosmetics shop. I kept working part-time jobs in many places. I am tired of working part-time jobs. I must continue to have part-time jobs, but money drains away like pouring water through a sieve. (Participant 6) It was difficult for me to obtain a rented room by myself. When something goes wrong in my room, I feel embarrassed. I don’t feel comfortable calling a repairman to my room where I live alone. So, if anything is broken, I try my best to fix it on my own. (Participant 1) I have no one to rely on. Therefore, I keep trying to think about things such as what I need for now and what I need to do. (Participant 2) I realized this after experiencing various hardships. If I started to blame myself and had negative thoughts, there would be no end. So, I accepted the situation and made up my mind. As you know, living on my own is not easy. With firm determination, I live my life fiercely. I endured hardships. (Participant 5) 3.2.2. Different Life than Before Leaving Out-of-Home Care After leaving youth shelters, the participants lived lives opposite to the ones they had before leaving shelters. They avoided the temptation to hang out with friends and spend money, focusing on saving instead. Additionally, they managed their physical and mental health. I don’t meet my old friends with whom I used to hang out and wander with when I was young. I don’t contact them anymore, and I blocked them even though some of them still contact me. It is because meeting them seems pathetic and unhelpful. (Participant 2) When I was in the shelter, I lived my life as impulsively as I liked. It seems that people change once they become independent. Previously, I sometimes slept outside and hung out with my friends. Now, I always come home to sleep even though it is late. I spend the least amount of money and save as much as possible. I buy only what I need, and I don’t spend money otherwise. (Participant 3) I did not pay attention to myself while I was only working, but I realized that my physical and mental health had worsened. Therefore, I realized that I needed to manage myself well in the first place. I diligently go to the gym and control my diet. (Participant 5) 3.3. Theme 3. Need a Helping Hand to Deal with the Emptiness in Life 3.3.1. Others’ Help is Desperately Needed Participants realized that they needed help dealing with emptiness during their transition into independence from concerned adults and support organizations. When I have issues that are difficult for me to decide on, I need advice from a grown-up. I have no one. (Participant 8) Nowadays, rent is so high that it is difficult to find a place with rent close to the support amount. My friends say the same thing because the rent keeps increasing, and the support amount is too small to keep up with the increasing rental costs. So, we can’t afford a rental house. (Participant 2) 3.3.2. Asking for Help The participants requested help in difficult situations. They visited support organizations and received counseling when they experienced psychological difficulties. I applied for the (position of) recipient of basic living in the Community Service Center, and the borough office gave me a list of job openings and helped me work in the Self-Help Center. (Participant 2) The Youth Self-Help Center supported me with my deposit and rent and helped me enroll in a private institute for the license. I was not alone. When I asked for help, someone helped me. (Participant 5) When I was really struggling, I didn’t eat. I was lying against the wall, crying. When I felt a bit better, I thought, “I can’t stay like this,” so I went to the counseling center at my school first. I had three counseling sessions and then went to a psychiatrist. I was diagnosed with depression; therefore, I received psychological therapy and medication. I am still taking my medication. (Participant 6) 3.4. Theme 4. Hope for the Future 3.4.1. Dreams of a Stable Life The participants talked about their hopes for the future. They had a strong desire for a stable life. They desired a dependable livelihood and a normal family. The reason I got my license as a nurse aide was neither because of my interest nor because I liked it. Instead, it was because I wanted a stable life with a nurse aide job. For that, I need a license. I want to buy a house. I think I will be more stable once I own a house. So, I have been saving up money. Money is the only thing I can count on. (Participant 3) My greatest wish is to get a job. My current situation is unstable. I need to get a job to achieve stability. So, I need to prepare for the job market, and it keeps me busy. (Participant 7) If I become financially stable, I want to get married, have a baby, and live an ordinary life. (Participant 5) As you know, people usually get married and have a family in their 30s. But ah! I thought, “Is it even possible for me?” Even today, women face more struggles in Korean society. Moreover, I don’t even have my parents. I think that marriage without my parents would be disadvantageous to me. (Participant 6) 3.4.2. Dreams of Growth Participants had dreams of personal growth. They set future goals for themselves and have moved toward them. I had been working part-time and thinking about the future, realizing that just working part-time would not help me. Since I had not even completed my high school education at that time, I made up my mind to prepare and take the general equivalency diploma (GED). During GED preparation, I wondered what I liked the most and what I did best. Most of all, I realized that I liked animals, particularly puppies. While thinking about these things, I decided to learn about becoming a companion dog stylist. (Participant 2) I think I had a clear goal. I wanted to go to college. There were things at home that made me feel intimidated; I didn't want to stay that way, and the shelter made me feel like I was capable. So, I think that's what encouraged me to go to college. (Participant 7) I am studying to get a dog stylist license. I am preparing for the written exam myself. Once I pass the written exam, I must learn about the practical aspects. So, I am going to enroll in a private institute, where I will prepare for six months. (Participant 2) I want to work on product planning and menu development, so I'm currently preparing for the certificate of SMAT, or service management ability test. (Participant 7) 4. Discussion This qualitative study applied Colaizzi’s [ 16 ] phenomenological research method to understand the independent living experiences of youths after leaving youth shelters. We found that participants experienced unexpected psychological chaos rather than freedom of independence in the transition from out-of-home care to independence. This is consistent with previous studies reporting that immediately after leaving out-of-home care, youths feel free because there is no one interfering with their lives; however, they eventually experience psychological difficulties due to the loneliness and emptiness of being alone in the world [ 5 , 11 – 13 , 19 ]. Additionally, as they left youth shelters towards independence, study participants experienced confusion in interpersonal relationships. Early experiences of abuse, violence, and being in out-of-home care have negative impacts on the formation of trust and stability in interpersonal relationships [ 20 ]. The isolation and loneliness experienced after leaving youth shelters may exacerbate the negative impacts on interpersonal relationships. Therefore, considering their distrust of others, unstable relationships, isolation and loneliness, and psychological issues, psychological support tailored to these youths' needs should be provided. A Korean national survey revealed that approximately 86% of Korean parents responded that they should financially support their children until college graduation [ 21 ]. In addition, some young people who grew up in typical Korean families do not become independent even after college graduation or employment and continue living with or rely on their parents to raise their children even after marriage [ 22 ]. By contrast, youth aged 18–25 in out-of-home care encounter the challenging task of becoming economically independent without parental support [ 13 ]. This study revealed that the participants encountered harsh realities while looking for housing and making money for a basic livelihood. Furthermore, they expressed feelings of being pushed over the edge when suffering financial hardships. Previous studies have reported that some youths lack the funds to cover their basic living expenses [ 19 ] and feel constricted and breathless [ 11 , 15 ]. Failure to overcome these challenges increases the likelihood of homelessness, which, in turn, increases their risk of developing mental health problems [ 23 ]. Therefore, the highest priority for successful independence is practical support that finds a reliable source of income and improves management skills [ 15 ]. Even though they became independent at a young age, participants suddenly had to assume the role of adults and make decisions without the appropriate help of adults around them. Consistent with our study, previous studies also reported that they accepted that they would have to fulfill their adult roles and endure life as it is, working various part-time jobs [ 11 – 13 , 15 ]. Going through these great difficulties in this transition period, they gradually learn to endure and accept their circumstances, realizing that they must ultimately depend on themselves [ 5 , 15 ]. Participants managed their lives by resisting temptation, leaving their aimless adolescence behind. Some participants stopped contacting friends who hung out with them during the past wandering time of adolescence. They connected with friends who had lived together in shelters, exchanging information. However, these relationships sometimes deteriorate or fall apart [ 12 , 24 ]. Despite many trials and errors, they set up their principles for controlling and managing themselves and their efforts to improve their quality of life [ 12 , 15 , 19 ]. Participants expressed that they desperately needed help and advice from trustworthy adults and support organizations [ 8 , 11 ]. Living on their own presents challenges, including housing, economic issues, careers, interpersonal relationships, and healthcare. However, they were still in late adolescence and afraid of independent decision-making. They had no one with whom to discuss the difficulties they faced [ 19 ]; therefore, they were desperate for support from adults who provided wisdom and practical life assistance [ 15 ]. The participants were grateful to the shelter staff who helped them during their stay at the shelters; even after they were discharged from the shelter, they looked to the staff for information necessary for life and employment [ 19 , 25 ]. Therefore, developing a one-on-one mentoring system providing immediate, practical assistance in confronting the various difficulties experienced after starting independent living is necessary. Participants sought help for difficult problems and visited counseling centers for emotional difficulties. These youths are more likely to develop mental health problems, such as depression and alcohol problems, than general adolescents [ 14 , 26 ]. Additionally, psychological interventions may be needed to manage the confusion, hurt, and loss in past relationships with biological parents [ 15 ]. After leaving out-of-home care, youths may experience psychiatric difficulties due to childhood trauma and stress arising from the new environment. They often must receive active treatment, such as medications [ 12 ]. Therefore, psychological, social, and economic stability within the social system is required. Participants in this study hoped that their lives would stabilize and they would have a stable family life, unlike the one they had with their parents. They realized that living for themselves would be a priority [ 11 ]; therefore, they had time to plan their lives with hope, holding on to their dreams of growth [ 12 ]. They learned the necessary qualifications or skills to secure stable employment and attend college [ 11 , 19 ]. However, financial constraints often forced them to seek illegal part-time work or give up their studies [ 11 , 14 ]. A survey on crisis youths in Korea revealed that 38.4% of them have experienced dropping out of school [ 27 ]. In Japan, youths in out-of-home care exhibited a ten times higher risk of high school dropout than the overall youth population [ 28 ]. Previous studies indicated that youths leaving out-of-home care are more likely to experience insecurity and exclusion in education and employment [ 26 , 29 ]. A study revealed that youths receiving short-term out-of-home care are at a higher risk of dropping out of high school [ 28 ]. Consequently, those residing in youth shelters rather than group homes or childcare facilities face significant challenges in continuing their education. Therefore, it is essential to provide appropriate support to enable these individuals to pursue their growth goals. The transition to independent living should be gradual. Mutual support from various welfare systems is required [ 30 ]. For example, a flexible policy applied early in the independent living process, such as allowing youths to use independent living dormitories after leaving out-of-home care until their employment status stabilizes, should be considered [ 13 ]. Above all, essential aspects of preparing for independent living are house, job, and money management [ 11 ], and transitional programs related to these aspects are needed [ 26 ]. The limitations of this study are as follows: First, it did not include youths at high risk under challenging situations. We purposively sampled participants who could provide rich, detailed descriptions of independent living after leaving out-of-home care. Further research is needed on youths at high social, economic, and psychiatric risk after leaving out-of-home care. Second, the participants were all females. Therefore, additional research on the independent living experiences of male youths should be conducted to compare gender differences. 5. Conclusions This study examined independent living experiences from young adults’ perspectives after leaving out-of-home care. Participants who experienced various problems during the transition period from out-of-home care to independent living sought economic, psychological, and social stability. Most importantly, mentors who can provide intensive and meticulous help are needed for those experiencing chaos in the early stages of independent living. Moreover, flexible individual support and solid social systems must be established until individuals become stable and independent. These study results will help community practitioners understand youths' independent living experiences after leaving out-of-home care. Furthermore, it will promote policy research to develop gradual and successful independent living strategies. Declarations Author Contributions: All authors listed meet the authorship criteria according to the latest guidelines of the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors and agree with the manuscript. Conceptualization, DN and GK.; methodology, DN and GK.; validation, DN, EK and GK; formal analysis, DN and GK; investigation, DN and EK; writing—original draft preparation, DN and GK; writing—review and editing, DN and GK; project administration, DN; funding acquisition, DN. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript. Funding: This work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korean government (MSIT) (No. NRF-2022R1F1A1063208). Institutional Review Board Statement: The study was conducted by the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the Institutional Review Board of Eulji University (approval number: EU22-81, date of approval: 22 November 2022) for studies involving humans. Data Availability Statement: The data presented in this study are available on request from the corresponding author. Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflicts of interest. 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Family crisis diagnosis and response strategies according to diversification of social environment (Report No. 2016-08). https://repository.kihasa.re.kr/bitstream/201002/20816/1/%EC%97%B0%EA%B5%AC%EB%B3%B4%EA%B3%A0%EC%84%9C%202016-08.pdf ( Korea Inst. for Health and Social Affairs , 2016) Chikwava, F., O’Donnell, M., Ferrante, A., Pakpahan, E. & Cordier, R. Patterns of homelessness and housing instability and the relationship with mental health disorders among young people transitioning from out-of-home care: Retrospective cohort study using linked administrative data. PLOS ONE 17, e0274196 (2022). Lee, Y. & An, H. Qualitative study on interpersonal relationships of the youth who aged out of institutional care. ffyc 65, 129–168 (2021). Lee, T., Choi, E. S. & Lee, S. A case study on the relationship between life experiences and self-reliance of adolescents after discharge from child care facilities. Korean J. Youth Stud. 26, 293–322 (2019). Heerde, J. A., Hemphill, S. A. & Scholes-Balog, K. E. The impact of transitional programmes on post‐transition outcomes for youth leaving out‐of‐home care: A meta‐analysis. Health Soc. Care Community 26, e15–e30 (2018). Hwang, Y. & Lee, J. Youth At-Risk Survey (Report No. 20-R24). http://www.dbpia.co.kr/journal/articleDetail?nodeId=NODE10539340 (Natl Youth Policy Inst., 2020). Ozawa, E. & Hirata, Y. High school dropout rates of Japanese youth in residential care: An examination of major risk factors. Behav. Sci. (Basel) 10, 19 (2019). Kääriälä, A., Haapakorva, P., Pekkarinen, E. & Sund, R. From care to education and work? Education and employment trajectories in early adulthood by children in out-of-home care. Child Abuse Negl. 98, 104144 (2019). Cameron, C. et al. Care leavers in early adulthood: How do they fare in Britain, Finland, and Germany? Child. Youth Serv. Rev. 87, 163–172 (2018). Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-4227212","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":307452575,"identity":"98779795-955c-4da2-8bf0-0b657573447b","order_by":0,"name":"Dabok Noh","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Eulji University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Dabok","middleName":"","lastName":"Noh","suffix":""},{"id":307452576,"identity":"467d8e15-8021-49c1-983f-41a26ebc89b8","order_by":1,"name":"Eunyeong Kim","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Seongnam-si Youth Shelter for Runaway Girls","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Eunyeong","middleName":"","lastName":"Kim","suffix":""},{"id":307452577,"identity":"f95001dc-37ca-43e6-98f4-f76a91a5095e","order_by":2,"name":"Goun Kim","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA00lEQVRIiWNgGAWjYBACCRCuYLBBFSGs5QxDGulaDpOgRbJ/jeGNAzXn8wzOH372gKHGjkFy9gH8WqQl3hhbHDh2u9jgRpq5AcOxZAZpvgT8WuQkzphJf2y4nbjhBoOZBAPbAQY5HgIOA2mRONhwLnHD+ePfJBj+EaFFmr8HpOVA4oYDOWYSjG0HGKQJaZGcwVYM9EtyseSNnDKJxL5kHskeAlokzh/eCAwxuzy+88e3SXz4Zgd0KQEtDBIJYApOEnIWEPAfQNIyCkbBKBgFowAbAADE/UJRzqhJtwAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==","orcid":"","institution":"Pusan National University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Goun","middleName":"","lastName":"Kim","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2024-04-06 11:44:21","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-4227212/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-4227212/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":86714286,"identity":"884a149e-1a51-44c5-8337-1d14c578e33b","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-07-14 20:01:27","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":687238,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4227212/v1/3442c24f-22ea-42f7-aea3-47d3f1fcfe3c.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Experiences of Independent Living among Female Youths after Leaving Out-of- Home Care in South Korea: A Phenomenological Study","fulltext":[{"header":"1. Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eOut-of-home youths in Korea refer to those who have left their homes and guardians due to family conflict, abuse, violence, neglect, family dissolution, runaway, or other reasons, and consequently require social protection and support [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e]. Out-of-home care provides these youths with protection, support, and alternative residences, such as foster care, group homes, youth shelters, and other specialized and alternative care settings.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eYouths must leave their out-of-home care placement after they turn 18 and no later than their 25th birthday [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e], which coincides with the transition from adolescence to adulthood [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e]. In other words, these youths must overcome the challenges of transitioning from care to independence and the typical challenges of adolescence to early adulthood. Young adults experience significant changes and challenges, such as identity exploration; instability in love, relationships, and work; feelings of being in between adolescence and adulthood; and mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eYouths leaving out-of-home care placement often encounter significant financial and psychological difficulties after leaving care despite preparing for independence [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR6\" citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e]. Previous studies have reported that they struggle with financial challenges related to finding and maintaining employment, managing their finances, and housing instability [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e], along with psychological issues such as loneliness, despair, and suicidal ideation [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eYouths in out-of-home care, particularly those residing in youth shelters, have been reported to be vulnerable. They were found to have significantly lower levels of social support, life satisfaction, happiness, resilience, and self-efficacy and higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to youths in group homes [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e]. This finding is attributed to the fact that youths residing in youth shelters left their homes during crises in their adolescence and received immediate and short-term care in youth shelters. By contrast, those in group homes have been placed since their childhood and have been exposed to more structured and long-term care. The characteristics of youth shelter residents who receive limited out-of-home care over a relatively short period may contribute to lower levels of preparedness for independence [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThere is a substantial body of research on the experiences of youths transitioning out of group homes [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e], care institutions [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e], and foster homes [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e]; however, studies focusing on the transition experiences of youths leaving youth shelters is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the independent living experiences of female youths from their perspectives after leaving youth shelters. The study\u0026rsquo;s results contribute to developing effective support services to facilitate the successful transition into independent living and adulthood among youth shelter residents.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2. Materials and Methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.1. Design\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study used the descriptive phenomenological approach suggested by Colaizzi [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e] to understand and describe the meaning and essence of independent living experiences for female youths after leaving youth shelters.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.2. Sampling and Recruitment\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe participants were ten female youths aged 18\u0026ndash;24 living independently after being discharged from youth shelters in S city in Korea. A purposive sampling method was conducted to select informants who had experienced independent living as youths and were willing to share their experiences and explain their rich experiences clearly, aligning with the subject and purpose of the study. The researchers requested cooperation from the local youth shelters and recommendations of individuals who had transitioned to independent living after leaving the shelters because the informants were more known to shelter staff than to the researchers. The researchers subsequently contacted the recommended individuals to recruit them as informants.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec5\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.3. Data Collection\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndividual in-depth interviews were conducted between December 2022 and May 2023 with each participating female youth, lasting approximately one to one-and-a-half hours. The interviews were conducted in a quiet space to ensure privacy and comfort for participants and the interviewer.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterview questions were developed by two researchers and approved by the shelter directors. The interview began with unstructured and open-ended questions such as, \u0026ldquo;Tell me about the process of becoming independent after leaving the youth shelter.\u0026rdquo; To collect detailed descriptions from the participants and understand their descriptions, we used additional open-ended questions such as: \"What happened at work or school after leaving the youth shelter?\"; \"What difficulties did you face while transitioning out of the youth shelter into independent living?\"; \"What did you think or feel when you experienced difficulties?\"; \"What was the driving force behind overcoming these difficulties?\"; \"Tell me about a person or institution that has helped you the most in becoming independent\"; \"What do you think when you look back on the time you have had since leaving the youth shelter?\"; and \"Is there anything else you would like to say about independent living?\" Clarifying questions were asked to confirm the specific events they experienced and their thoughts and emotions.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAll interviews were transcribed after data collection, and the transcribed data were coded independently by the two authors. After each interview, we compared the similarities and differences with previously analyzed data. Interviews were conducted until no new information, codes, or themes were generated. We determined data saturation through several discussions with qualitative researchers and the shelter director. Data collection was completed with the 10th participant because the content yielded repetitive information compared to previous interviews, indicating data saturation [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4. Ethical Considerations\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study was approved by the shelter directors and the Institutional Review Board of XX University (No. XXX-XXX). Informed consent was obtained from all subjects involved in the study. The information sheet included the contents of the study, procedures, anonymity, confidentiality, risks and protection, participants' rights, the possibility of withdrawing consent, a record in audio, and compensation. The collected data were kept anonymous, stored in encrypted files for security, and were accessible only to the researchers. After completion of the study, the data would be stored for three years. After this time, related data would be permanently and irretrievably deleted and destroyed. The participants were given a gift card.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.5. Data Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study was analyzed using Colaizzi\u0026rsquo;s [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e] phenomenological research method. The design determines the meaning of the participant\u0026rsquo;s lived experience and states the nature of the phenomenon of independent living experiences. Colaizzi\u0026rsquo;s method consists of seven steps for data analysis. First, the interview transcripts were read repeatedly to obtain an overall sense of the participants\u0026rsquo; experiences. Second, significant statements were extracted by selecting meaningful sentences or phrases related to the phenomenon of independent living experiences. Third, significant statements were formulated with meanings composed in the researcher\u0026rsquo;s language. Fourth, theme clusters and themes were aggregated by grouping similar items within the constructed meaning. Fifth, the phenomenon's essence was described thoroughly to provide an integrated explanation of the subject. Sixth, the fundamental structure of the phenomenon was described by integrating its common aspects. Seventh, the essential structure of the phenomenon in the study was validated, and the analysis was completed. This study used the MAXQDA 10 software (VERBI Software GmbH, Berlin, Germany) for coding and management.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.6. Rigor\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eFollowing Lincoln and Guba's [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e] framework for ensuring research rigor, we ensured this study's credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe interviewer started with open-ended questions to enhance credibility and maintain a neutral and non-judgmental position. As one of the authors, the interviewer had diverse experiences as a youth professional in youth shelters and received qualitative research training. We conducted regular peer debriefings with other researchers during the process analysis.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo enhance transferability, the cooperator in the local youth shelters recommended participants who provided detailed statements about their independent living experiences. We held regular meetings to discuss the coding process and key concepts. Finally, we confirmed that data saturation was reached when no new codes emerged.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo enhance dependability, we prepared a detailed data collection process. Researchers recorded all the processes and strictly adhered to the procedures. We analyzed the fundamental structure, working out, and inquiries with the shelter directors to ensure field data dependability.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e The results were prepared by quoting the participants\u0026rsquo; words verbatim to enhance conformability. Consensus decisions were made by balancing individual potential biases through field notes, memos, and the researchers' reflections to verify the collected data.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"3. Results","content":"\u003cp\u003eParticipants were all women aged 18\u0026ndash;24 years. They lived alone, with their partner, or with friends. Their periods of independent living after being discharged from youth shelters varied, ranging from five months to five years (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). We extracted 18 formulated meanings from the interview data and categorized them into eight clusters, which were integrated into four themes (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eParticipants\u0026rsquo; profile\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"5\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAge (years)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEducation level\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eResidence type\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLength of independent living\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDropped out of high school\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLiving alone\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1 year\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh school graduate\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLiving with a partner\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4 years\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e22\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh school graduate\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLiving alone\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5 months\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e22\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh school graduate\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLiving alone\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6 months\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDropped out of high school\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLiving alone\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3 years, 5 months\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e23\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCurrently enrolled in college\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLiving alone\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5 years\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGraduation from college\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLiving with a friend\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4 months\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh school graduate\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLiving with a partner\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1 year, 2 months\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh school graduate\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLiving with a friend\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1 year\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCurrently enrolled in college\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLiving alone\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1 year, 10 months\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThemes and theme clusters of independent living experienced by youths after leaving out-of-home care\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFormulated meaning\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTheme cluster\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTheme\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndependence led to isolation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePsychological chaos rather than freedom\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBeginning to stand alone\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTurmoil in interpersonal relationships\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFeeling powerless in life\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFinancial hardship that pushes them over the edge\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHarsh realities of independence\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFacing difficulties in the workplace\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDesperate struggle to survive\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eResponsibility for their own life\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBecoming a grown-up suddenly\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eResolve and make decisions by themselves\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEnduring and accepting their circumstances\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRefraining from the temptation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifferent life than before leaving the out-of-home care\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSelf-management\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNeed help from good adults\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOthers\u0026rsquo; help is desperately needed\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNeeds a helping hand to deal with the emptiness in life\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNeed help from support organizations\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVisiting support organizations for help\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAsking for help\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHaving psychological counseling\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eA desire for a stable livelihood\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDreams of a stable life\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHope for the future\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eA desire for a normal family\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSetting up future goals\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDreams of growth\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMoving toward the goals\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026lt;Insert Tables\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e and \u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e here\u0026gt;\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1. Theme 1. Beginning to Stand Alone\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1.1. Psychological Chaos Rather than Freedom\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eParticipants who left youth shelters anticipated attaining freedom and personal privacy. However, the transition from out-of-home care to independence brought about unexpected psychological chaos. While residing in the shelters, they shared their lives with fellow youths and shelter staff. However, they felt isolated upon beginning the independence journey and living independently. Although they established secure relationships with shelter staff during their time in shelters, the transition towards independence brought changes in interpersonal dynamics, leading to feelings of betrayal, emotional wounds, and turmoil in interpersonal relationships. Experiencing psychological chaos, they felt powerlessness in life.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhen I was in the shelter, I wanted a quiet place. I wanted my privacy protected. After becoming independent, it\u0026rsquo;s strange, too quiet, and I can\u0026rsquo;t adapt to it. When I see the ceiling of the empty room, I feel so sad and lonely. It seems like I am all alone in the world. (Participant 10)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOnce I go out, I need to spend money, so I usually stay at home, and then I feel trapped. It\u0026rsquo;s just kind of frustrating and annoying. (Participant 4)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eI realized that relationships could derail my life. I was recently betrayed by somebody, and I learned painfully that I should not easily trust anyone. (Participant 5)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhen it was too hard, I thought, \u0026ldquo;What is the point of living life this way?\u0026rdquo; It was so difficult to hold on to life, but I was not courageous enough to end my life. (Participant 6)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1.2. Harsh Realities of Independence\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs the participants transitioned from the shelter toward independence, they experienced harsh realities. They experienced financial burdens and distress when they had to manage housing, meals, and daily living expenses independently. They also experienced difficulties in the workplace during their transition to independence.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhen I had financial trouble, I felt like I was pushed over the edge. After paying the rent, I had no money left to live. I had to take out a loan and work part-time jobs. It was so hard. The shelter had provided me with food and a place to sleep. After becoming independent, I had no money to buy food. I also had to pay rent for a place to sleep, which was the biggest stress. (Participant 6)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhen I was working as a nurse aide in a clinic, there were age gaps among those I worked with, and there was no one my age, making things difficult because there was no one I could talk to with ease. They were also mean to me in some ways. (Participant 3)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2. Theme 2. Becoming a Grown-up Suddenly\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2.1. Responsibility for Their Own Life\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe participants suddenly had to become adults and take responsibility for their lives. They had to work various part-time jobs to sustain their basic livelihoods. Facing various challenges in independent living, they had to resolve their problems and make decisions without the help of adults around them, experiencing difficulties along the way. While experiencing negative thoughts and despair in these challenging situations, the participants ultimately endured and accepted their circumstances.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMy friends call me the king of part-time jobs. I worked at a restaurant, a factory, a fast-food store, and a cosmetics shop. I kept working part-time jobs in many places. I am tired of working part-time jobs. I must continue to have part-time jobs, but money drains away like pouring water through a sieve. (Participant 6)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt was difficult for me to obtain a rented room by myself. When something goes wrong in my room, I feel embarrassed. I don\u0026rsquo;t feel comfortable calling a repairman to my room where I live alone. So, if anything is broken, I try my best to fix it on my own. (Participant 1)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eI have no one to rely on. Therefore, I keep trying to think about things such as what I need for now and what I need to do. (Participant 2)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eI realized this after experiencing various hardships. If I started to blame myself and had negative thoughts, there would be no end. So, I accepted the situation and made up my mind. As you know, living on my own is not easy. With firm determination, I live my life fiercely. I endured hardships. (Participant 5)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2.2. Different Life than Before Leaving Out-of-Home Care\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAfter leaving youth shelters, the participants lived lives opposite to the ones they had before leaving shelters. They avoided the temptation to hang out with friends and spend money, focusing on saving instead. Additionally, they managed their physical and mental health.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eI don\u0026rsquo;t meet my old friends with whom I used to hang out and wander with when I was young. I don\u0026rsquo;t contact them anymore, and I blocked them even though some of them still contact me. It is because meeting them seems pathetic and unhelpful. (Participant 2)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhen I was in the shelter, I lived my life as impulsively as I liked. It seems that people change once they become independent. Previously, I sometimes slept outside and hung out with my friends. Now, I always come home to sleep even though it is late. I spend the least amount of money and save as much as possible. I buy only what I need, and I don\u0026rsquo;t spend money otherwise. (Participant 3)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eI did not pay attention to myself while I was only working, but I realized that my physical and mental health had worsened. Therefore, I realized that I needed to manage myself well in the first place. I diligently go to the gym and control my diet. (Participant 5)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.3. Theme 3. Need a Helping Hand to Deal with the Emptiness in Life\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec17\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.3.1. Others\u0026rsquo; Help is Desperately Needed\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eParticipants realized that they needed help dealing with emptiness during their transition into independence from concerned adults and support organizations.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhen I have issues that are difficult for me to decide on, I need advice from a grown-up. I have no one. (Participant 8)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eNowadays, rent is so high that it is difficult to find a place with rent close to the support amount. My friends say the same thing because the rent keeps increasing, and the support amount is too small to keep up with the increasing rental costs. So, we can\u0026rsquo;t afford a rental house. (Participant 2)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec18\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.3.2. Asking for Help\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e The participants requested help in difficult situations. They visited support organizations and received counseling when they experienced psychological difficulties.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eI applied for the (position of) recipient of basic living in the Community Service Center, and the borough office gave me a list of job openings and helped me work in the Self-Help Center. (Participant 2)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Youth Self-Help Center supported me with my deposit and rent and helped me enroll in a private institute for the license. I was not alone. When I asked for help, someone helped me. (Participant 5)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhen I was really struggling, I didn\u0026rsquo;t eat. I was lying against the wall, crying. When I felt a bit better, I thought, \u0026ldquo;I can\u0026rsquo;t stay like this,\u0026rdquo; so I went to the counseling center at my school first. I had three counseling sessions and then went to a psychiatrist. I was diagnosed with depression; therefore, I received psychological therapy and medication. I am still taking my medication. (Participant 6)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec19\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.4. Theme 4. Hope for the Future\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec20\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.4.1. Dreams of a Stable Life\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe participants talked about their hopes for the future. They had a strong desire for a stable life. They desired a dependable livelihood and a normal family.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe reason I got my license as a nurse aide was neither because of my interest nor because I liked it. Instead, it was because I wanted a stable life with a nurse aide job. For that, I need a license. I want to buy a house. I think I will be more stable once I own a house. So, I have been saving up money. Money is the only thing I can count on. (Participant 3)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMy greatest wish is to get a job. My current situation is unstable. I need to get a job to achieve stability. So, I need to prepare for the job market, and it keeps me busy. (Participant 7)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIf I become financially stable, I want to get married, have a baby, and live an ordinary life. (Participant 5)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs you know, people usually get married and have a family in their 30s. But ah! I thought, \u0026ldquo;Is it even possible for me?\u0026rdquo; Even today, women face more struggles in Korean society. Moreover, I don\u0026rsquo;t even have my parents. I think that marriage without my parents would be disadvantageous to me. (Participant 6)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec21\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.4.2. Dreams of Growth\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eParticipants had dreams of personal growth. They set future goals for themselves and have moved toward them.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eI had been working part-time and thinking about the future, realizing that just working part-time would not help me. Since I had not even completed my high school education at that time, I made up my mind to prepare and take the general equivalency diploma (GED). During GED preparation, I wondered what I liked the most and what I did best. Most of all, I realized that I liked animals, particularly puppies. While thinking about these things, I decided to learn about becoming a companion dog stylist. (Participant 2)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eI think I had a clear goal. I wanted to go to college. There were things at home that made me feel intimidated; I didn't want to stay that way, and the shelter made me feel like I was capable. So, I think that's what encouraged me to go to college. (Participant 7)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eI am studying to get a dog stylist license. I am preparing for the written exam myself. Once I pass the written exam, I must learn about the practical aspects. So, I am going to enroll in a private institute, where I will prepare for six months. (Participant 2)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eI want to work on product planning and menu development, so I'm currently preparing for the certificate of SMAT, or service management ability test. (Participant 7)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4. Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis qualitative study applied Colaizzi\u0026rsquo;s [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e] phenomenological research method to understand the independent living experiences of youths after leaving youth shelters.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWe found that participants experienced unexpected psychological chaos rather than freedom of independence in the transition from out-of-home care to independence. This is consistent with previous studies reporting that immediately after leaving out-of-home care, youths feel free because there is no one interfering with their lives; however, they eventually experience psychological difficulties due to the loneliness and emptiness of being alone in the world [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR12\" citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e]. Additionally, as they left youth shelters towards independence, study participants experienced confusion in interpersonal relationships. Early experiences of abuse, violence, and being in out-of-home care have negative impacts on the formation of trust and stability in interpersonal relationships [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e]. The isolation and loneliness experienced after leaving youth shelters may exacerbate the negative impacts on interpersonal relationships. Therefore, considering their distrust of others, unstable relationships, isolation and loneliness, and psychological issues, psychological support tailored to these youths' needs should be provided.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA Korean national survey revealed that approximately 86% of Korean parents responded that they should financially support their children until college graduation [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e]. In addition, some young people who grew up in typical Korean families do not become independent even after college graduation or employment and continue living with or rely on their parents to raise their children even after marriage [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e]. By contrast, youth aged 18\u0026ndash;25 in out-of-home care encounter the challenging task of becoming economically independent without parental support [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e]. This study revealed that the participants encountered harsh realities while looking for housing and making money for a basic livelihood. Furthermore, they expressed feelings of being pushed over the edge when suffering financial hardships. Previous studies have reported that some youths lack the funds to cover their basic living expenses [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e] and feel constricted and breathless [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e]. Failure to overcome these challenges increases the likelihood of homelessness, which, in turn, increases their risk of developing mental health problems [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e]. Therefore, the highest priority for successful independence is practical support that finds a reliable source of income and improves management skills [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEven though they became independent at a young age, participants suddenly had to assume the role of adults and make decisions without the appropriate help of adults around them. Consistent with our study, previous studies also reported that they accepted that they would have to fulfill their adult roles and endure life as it is, working various part-time jobs [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR12\" citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e]. Going through these great difficulties in this transition period, they gradually learn to endure and accept their circumstances, realizing that they must ultimately depend on themselves [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eParticipants managed their lives by resisting temptation, leaving their aimless adolescence behind. Some participants stopped contacting friends who hung out with them during the past wandering time of adolescence. They connected with friends who had lived together in shelters, exchanging information. However, these relationships sometimes deteriorate or fall apart [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e]. Despite many trials and errors, they set up their principles for controlling and managing themselves and their efforts to improve their quality of life [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eParticipants expressed that they desperately needed help and advice from trustworthy adults and support organizations [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e]. Living on their own presents challenges, including housing, economic issues, careers, interpersonal relationships, and healthcare. However, they were still in late adolescence and afraid of independent decision-making. They had no one with whom to discuss the difficulties they faced [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e]; therefore, they were desperate for support from adults who provided wisdom and practical life assistance [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e]. The participants were grateful to the shelter staff who helped them during their stay at the shelters; even after they were discharged from the shelter, they looked to the staff for information necessary for life and employment [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e]. Therefore, developing a one-on-one mentoring system providing immediate, practical assistance in confronting the various difficulties experienced after starting independent living is necessary.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e Participants sought help for difficult problems and visited counseling centers for emotional difficulties. These youths are more likely to develop mental health problems, such as depression and alcohol problems, than general adolescents [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e]. Additionally, psychological interventions may be needed to manage the confusion, hurt, and loss in past relationships with biological parents [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e]. After leaving out-of-home care, youths may experience psychiatric difficulties due to childhood trauma and stress arising from the new environment. They often must receive active treatment, such as medications [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e]. Therefore, psychological, social, and economic stability within the social system is required.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eParticipants in this study hoped that their lives would stabilize and they would have a stable family life, unlike the one they had with their parents. They realized that living for themselves would be a priority [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e]; therefore, they had time to plan their lives with hope, holding on to their dreams of growth [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e]. They learned the necessary qualifications or skills to secure stable employment and attend college [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e]. However, financial constraints often forced them to seek illegal part-time work or give up their studies [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e]. A survey on crisis youths in Korea revealed that 38.4% of them have experienced dropping out of school [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e27\u003c/span\u003e]. In Japan, youths in out-of-home care exhibited a ten times higher risk of high school dropout than the overall youth population [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e28\u003c/span\u003e]. Previous studies indicated that youths leaving out-of-home care are more likely to experience insecurity and exclusion in education and employment [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e29\u003c/span\u003e]. A study revealed that youths receiving short-term out-of-home care are at a higher risk of dropping out of high school [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e28\u003c/span\u003e]. Consequently, those residing in youth shelters rather than group homes or childcare facilities face significant challenges in continuing their education. Therefore, it is essential to provide appropriate support to enable these individuals to pursue their growth goals.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe transition to independent living should be gradual. Mutual support from various welfare systems is required [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e30\u003c/span\u003e]. For example, a flexible policy applied early in the independent living process, such as allowing youths to use independent living dormitories after leaving out-of-home care until their employment status stabilizes, should be considered [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e]. Above all, essential aspects of preparing for independent living are house, job, and money management [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e], and transitional programs related to these aspects are needed [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe limitations of this study are as follows: First, it did not include youths at high risk under challenging situations. We purposively sampled participants who could provide rich, detailed descriptions of independent living after leaving out-of-home care. Further research is needed on youths at high social, economic, and psychiatric risk after leaving out-of-home care. Second, the participants were all females. Therefore, additional research on the independent living experiences of male youths should be conducted to compare gender differences.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"5. Conclusions","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study examined independent living experiences from young adults\u0026rsquo; perspectives after leaving out-of-home care. Participants who experienced various problems during the transition period from out-of-home care to independent living sought economic, psychological, and social stability. Most importantly, mentors who can provide intensive and meticulous help are needed for those experiencing chaos in the early stages of independent living. Moreover, flexible individual support and solid social systems must be established until individuals become stable and independent. These study results will help community practitioners understand youths' independent living experiences after leaving out-of-home care. Furthermore, it will promote policy research to develop gradual and successful independent living strategies.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003eAuthor Contributions: All authors listed meet the authorship criteria according to the latest guidelines of the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors and agree with the manuscript. Conceptualization, DN and GK.; methodology, DN and GK.; validation, DN, EK and GK; formal analysis, DN and GK; investigation, DN and EK; writing\u0026mdash;original draft preparation, DN and GK; writing\u0026mdash;review and editing, DN and GK; project administration, DN; funding acquisition, DN. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFunding: This work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korean government (MSIT) (No. NRF-2022R1F1A1063208).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstitutional Review Board Statement: The study was conducted by the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the Institutional Review Board of Eulji University (approval number: EU22-81, date of approval: 22 November 2022) for studies involving humans.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eData Availability Statement: The data presented in this study are available on request from the corresponding author.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJuvenile welfare support act, 2. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://www.law.go.kr/%EB%B2%95%EB%A0%B9/%EC%B2%AD%EC%86%8\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"https://www.law.go.kr/%EB%B2%95%EB%A0%B9/%EC%B2%AD%EC%86%8\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003eC%EB%85%84%EB%B3%B5%EC%A7%80%EC%A7%80%EC%9B%90%EB%B2%95 (South Korea).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChild welfare act, 16. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://www.law.go.kr/%EB%B2%95%EB%A0%B9/\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"https://www.law.go.kr/%EB%B2%95%EB%A0%B9/\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e%EC%95%84%EB%8F%99%EB%B3%B5%EC%A7%80%EB%B2%95 (South Korea).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eArnett, J. 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(Basel) 10, 19 (2019).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eK\u0026auml;\u0026auml;ri\u0026auml;l\u0026auml;, A., Haapakorva, P., Pekkarinen, E. \u0026amp; Sund, R. From care to education and work? Education and employment trajectories in early adulthood by children in out-of-home care. Child Abuse Negl. 98, 104144 (2019).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCameron, C. \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e Care leavers in early adulthood: How do they fare in Britain, Finland, and Germany? Child. Youth Serv. Rev. 87, 163\u0026ndash;172 (2018).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"independent living, out-of-home care, phenomenological study, qualitative study, youth","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-4227212/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-4227212/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eYouths in out-of-home care residing in alternative living arrangements in Korea must leave the placement by their 25th birthday. In the transition to independence from out-of-home care, they often encounter significant financial and psychological difficulties. This study employed a qualitative phenomenological methodology using Colaizzi\u0026rsquo;s phenomenological data analysis to extract, organize, and analyze the data. In-depth interviews were conducted with ten female youths living independently after being discharged from youth shelters. Unstructured and open-ended questions were asked to collect clear and sufficient descriptions regarding participants\u0026rsquo; lived experiences of female youths after leaving out-of-home care. Our analyses revealed four themes in transitioning from out-of-home care to independent living related to their experiences of beginning to stand alone; becoming a grown-up suddenly; needing a helping hand to deal with the emptiness in life; and hope for the future. Out-of-home youths struggled and needed help from supportive policies and institutions to achieve financial, social, and psychological stability while becoming independent. These findings should encourage practitioners and policymakers to strengthen and expand tailored and long-term support systems for successful independent living for out-of-home youths in Korea.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Experiences of Independent Living among Female Youths after Leaving Out-of- Home Care in South Korea: A Phenomenological Study","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2024-05-30 07:36:29","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-4227212/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"f256298c-9c7e-4d4d-997b-9741f47bf64c","owner":[],"postedDate":"May 30th, 2024","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[{"id":32472414,"name":"Health sciences/Health care/Health policy"},{"id":32472415,"name":"Health sciences/Health care/Health services"},{"id":32472416,"name":"Health sciences/Health care/Public health"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-07-14T19:53:21+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2024-05-30 07:36:29","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-4227212","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-4227212","identity":"rs-4227212","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}