Chue, Su Xin Joanna; (2025) Supporting Positive Identity Development During the Transition to Adulthood: Experiences of Care-Experienced Young Persons and Professionals. Doctoral thesis (D.Ed.Psy), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

The changes to legislative developments in England in recent decades have facilitated progress and led to improved outcomes for Care Experienced Young Persons (CEYP). However, there remain significant gaps in the ability of Local Authorities (LA) to act in the role as corporate parents when supporting CEYP as they transition into adulthood. Currently, practical outcomes are often being prioritised over important psychosocial needs, such as supporting their identity development. Identity development is a key developmental task during the transition from adolescence to adulthood and is fundamental to CEYP’s wellbeing and resilience. This research sought to understand how CEYP in one LA in South-east England developed their identity as they transitioned to adulthood. It also aimed to investigate both CEYP’s and professionals’ perspectives on how the LA could support positive identity development. To achieve that end, individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven CEYP and seven LA professionals. The data was analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis and yielded three themes: 1) Impact of Past Experiences on Identity Development, which discusses the impact of trauma and relational changes, 2) Establishing Foundations of a Self-determined identity development, which entails prioritising CEYP’s fundamental psychological needs, and 3) Opportunities and Challenges for Working Relationally as Corporate Parents. Implications on corporate parents and the central role that educational psychologists can play in supporting CEYP in developing a self-determined identity are discussed. Focus is placed on corporate parents’ role in helping CEYP establish a stable and secure relational and physical base to promote self-discovery of their individual, relational and collective identities. Finally, the strengths and limitations of this study as a qualitative study conducted in one LA in England are considered.

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