Navigating adulthood in Romania

Educational resilience and social integration among youth leaving residential care

Abstract

Youth transitioning out of the child protection system face one of the most decisive and vulnerable periods of their lives, as they enter adulthood with limited social, psychological, and educational resources. This study examines the role of educational resilience and institutional support in shaping the future orientation and social integration of care leavers in Romania. Drawing on a qualitative research design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty-six young people aged 18–21 residing in residential care facilities across Mureș, Harghita, and Covasna counties. Additional interviews with professionals—social workers, educators, and psychologists—provided insight into institutional practices, mentoring programs, and systemic constraints.

The findings indicate that positive relationships with teachers and mentors, trust-based communication, and pedagogical reinforcement significantly strengthen youth’s self-efficacy, educational aspirations, and transition planning. Conversely, insufficient educational support, scarce mentoring, and abrupt exit procedures increase the risk of social exclusion.

The study highlights the necessity of coordinated action between child protection and educational systems, emphasizing mentorship, individualized learning support, and aftercare services. Strengthening educational resilience emerges as a key pathway to improved social mobility, reduced vulnerability, and long-term integration for young people leaving the child protection system.