There is a lack of research investigating the role of caregivers in the development and prevention of mental health issues and substance use among youth living in care. The goal of this study is to examine the relationship between caregiver characteristics, caregiver attachment and placement type on two dimensions of mental health and substance use among a sample of older youth living in care.
The data used for this study were collected as part of the Ontario Looking After Children project, which was developed to assess the needs and developmental progress of children and young people who have been in care for at least a year.
Findings from this study show that caregiver attachment, caregiver’s gender and caregiver’s school expectations are all significantly associated with mental health and substance use among older youth living in care. These findings highlight the importance of developing and maintaining healthy caregiver–child relationships as well as active involvement by the caregiver in the youth’s schooling.
Stable living environments will also help these young people to build and maintain healthy bonds with their community and peers. These results will inform future policies and intervention strategies aimed at improving the future outcomes for youth involved in child welfare.
