“See the World the Way We Do”: Understanding Trust for Youth in Foster Care

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 12:40 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: Toward Democratic Schooling Praxis and Research (Table 3)

Abstract

This qualitative study explored foster care youth (FCY) perceptions of trust in various systems (e.g. school environments, networks and legal systems). Findings outlined three themes: (1) School Relevance and Trust in School Environments; (2) Experiencing Discrimination, Unfair Treatment and Bias Across Systems; and (3) Social Network Trust and Support. These themes reflect the multifaceted nature of trust and distrust among FCY across educational and legal systems. While supportive relationships with specific individuals (e.g., teachers, friends, family members) can foster trust, negative experiences with systemic issues (e.g., unfair treatment/discrimination) contributed significantly to overall distrust in institutions (e.g. schools, legal systems, and foster care). Understanding these perceptions can inform strategies to improve and remedy support systems and institutional practices for vulnerable youth.

Authors

• Deborah A. Perez, University of Miami

• Wendy Morrison-Cavendish, University of Miami

• Kele Marcia Stewart, University of Miami

• Nastasia Schreiner, University of Miami