Running Head: A Hand Up, Not a Handout: Pathways to Success for Black Males After Foster Care

• In Event: Examining Black Students' Higher Education Trajectories

Abstract

The study focuses on the hypothesis that African American males who receive individualized interventions transition from foster care to post-secondary education are more likely to experience academic success, occupational stability, and overall well-being. The theoretical framework of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is applied to understand how fulfilling fundamental physiological, safety, love and belonging, esteem, and self-actualization needs can positively influence the success of AA males in foster care. A mixed-method methodology combines qualitative and quantitative data to investigate this hypothesis. The literature review highlights the underrepresentation of AA males in foster care and the need for effective interventions to enhance their educational and vocational achievement. The Transition to Independence Process model is introduced as a potential framework for intervention programs.

Authors

• Lashante Mystic Briscoe, Northcentral University

• Treasure Sheppard, Northeastern University