A Single Case Study on the Relationship Experiences of a Youth Who Aged Out of a Child Welfare Institution: From the Perspective of Attachment Theory

This study aimed to explore the relational experiences of youth transitioning out of child welfare institution from the perspective of attachment theory. To this end, in-depth interview conducted with a young adult who grew up in and subsequently left a child welfare institution, using a single-case study methodology. The analysis yielded four key themes: ‘wounds under the name of family’, ‘home under the name of institution’, ‘holding out outside the institution’, and ‘nevertheless’. The participant’s early experience of insecure parental attachment and the resulting negative self-image led to conflicts and emotional boundaries within the institution, which continued to manifest as social isolation and emotional disconnection after leaving. The craving for affection, intensified by isolation, led to continuous romantic relationships, however repeated relationship failures reinforced feeling of isolation and worthlessness. Despite profound despair in the face of adversity, the participant eventually revealed the possibility of trust and recovery though a supportive romantic relationship. This suggests that insecure early attachment can be reproduced in adulthood as difficulties in re-forming attachment and recurring relational trauma. Furthermore, it demonstrates that the attachment re-formation is possible through corrective emotional experiences. Based on these findings, implications and recommendations were discussed.