Self-Regulation and High School Graduation for Youth With and Without Disabilities in Foster Care

Abstract

High school graduation rates for U.S. youth in foster care are disproportionally low. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between self-regulation and high school graduation trajectory for foster youth with and without disabilities. Approximately 54% of the 37 youth in this study were on-track for on time high school graduation, although youth with disabilities were significantly less likely to be on track for graduation. Importantly, higher self-regulation skill increased the likelihood that all foster youth (with and without disabilities) were on track for graduation. Implications for school-based youth supports are discussed.

Keywords

self-management and self-regulation self-advocacy/self-determination diversity high school special education

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