Positive cascades effect in care leavers resilience processes: the association of self-compassion, SRH, self-efficacy and readiness for independent living

Young adults transitioning from out-of-home placements to independent living face numerous challenges, navigating a pivotal shift without familial support and while facing diminishing care resources. Research on protective factors for care leavers in independent living is limited, necessitating an expansion of theoretical knowledge to enhance their readiness for independent living. This study aimed to investigate the association between self-compassion, self-rated health (SRH), and self-efficacy in explaining the readiness of care leavers for independent living. A sample of 171 Israeli care leavers residing in transitional housing programs participated in the study using a self-reported questionnaire. Path analysis was employed to explore the direct and indirect effects of self-compassion, SRH, and self-efficacy on readiness for independent living. The study variables collectively explained 47% of the variance in readiness for independent living. Mediation analyses indicated that self-efficacy significantly mediated the association between self-compassion and readiness for independent living. Both self-efficacy and self-rated health served as mediators in the relationship between self-compassion and independent living readiness. Moreover, SRH emerged as a significant mediator in the association between self-efficacy and readiness for independent living. The study's findings highlight the possible positive cascades initiated by self-compassion in resilience pathways, shaping internal experiences and leading to tangible outcomes in the capacity of care leavers to navigate independent living post-discharge from care. These findings can contribute to interventions that facilitate a successful transition to independence among care leavers.