“We Need a Safe Place to Talk About How We Feel”: A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Peer Grief Support Intervention for Youth in Foster Care

Abstract

A randomized controlled trial examined the effectiveness of a peer grief support program for youth in foster care, an underrepresented population who experience disenfranchised grief. The sample included 78 youth, ages 12–20, randomly assigned to a treatment or waitlist control group. Baseline and post-intervention surveys (8-week, 16-week, and 6-month) were completed. Measures included the Children’s Hope Scale, the Inventory of Social Support, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, a measure of problem intensity, and qualitative assessments. At six months, positive large effects were observed for hopefulness, social support, and self-worth. Youth reported the program contributed to their sense of relational connection and perceived support, assisted them with healthy emotional and behavioral management, provided a safe space to share their feelings, and problems had improved since beginning the intervention. The findings suggest the intervention demonstrates the power of peer support and positively addresses youth’s experiences of loss and grief in foster care.

Keywords

youth in foster care loss grief peer support intervention support groups disenfranchised grief trauma-informed

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