Care Experience, Mental Health and Social Media: Implications for Practice from Conversations with Professionals and Care Leavers
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: There is increasing need to strike a balance between minimizing online risks and encouraging independence and freedom of interaction amongst the young adult population, particularly those with preexisting vulnerabilities. This paper presents the findings from a study exploring how professionals working with care leavers understand social media and perceive their role in recognizing and responding to the online needs of this group. Qualitative data was collected during focus groups, arts-based workshops, and interviews with 17 professionals. Thirteen young adults with experience of leaving the care system in Scotland also provided insights into the impact of social media on their mental health and personal relationships. These multiple voices highlight that professionals could improve their understanding of social media platforms by moving away from risk management and harm minimization to adopt more individualized ways of enhancing online relationships. These views are reiterated by care leavers who perceive social media interactions as both a source of support and a cause of anxiety during complex transitions. Drawing upon the health and social work literature suggests that professionals should work in partnership with care leavers to establish training that acknowledges lived experiences and prioritizes resilience and social capital in the development of positive online interactions.
Authors: Karen Cooper, Autumn Roesch-Marsh
Institutions: University of the West of Scotland, University of Edinburgh
Language: English
Topic: Child Welfare and Adoption
Subfield: Safety Research
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4403304502