Comportamentos desviantes e resiliência

: estudo comparativo entre adolescentes não acolhidos e acolhidos

Abstract

Introduction: Fostered adolescents are more vulnerable and prone to engaging in deviant behaviors, as well as having lower resilience. Considering that these traits might be associated with the dysfunctional family environments these young individuals may have experienced and given that foster care can put these youths at risk for certain behaviors, it is essential to study their differences in comparison to non-fostered adolescents. Study Objective: This study aims to compare deviant behaviors and resilience between fostered and non-fostered adolescents. Method: The sample consisted of 118 adolescents divided into two groups, Group 1 (non-fostered adolescents) and Group 2 (fostered adolescents), aged between 12 and 18 years old. The study utilized the Deviant Behavior Variety Scale, the Resilience Scale, and the Scale of Adolescents' Perception of the relationship with the main caregiver in the foster home. Results: Significant differences were found between non-fostered and fostered adolescents in deviant behaviors and resilience levels. However, contrary to expectations, no significant relationship between the variables was found. Conclusion: This study revealed complex nuances among fostered and non-fostered adolescents in Portugal, highlighting the urgency of preventive strategies for deviant behaviors. Discrepancies in resilience levels emphasize the need for consistent emotional and social support for these youths.

Date of Award	14 Feb 2024
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Ângela Maria Pereira e Sá Azevedo (Supervisor)