March 2022Vol. 23, No. 2LYGHT Program Enhances Foster Youth Well-Being

Dougy Center: The National Grief Center for Children and Families recently released findings from a study of the effectiveness of its LYGHT (Listening and Led by Youth in Foster Care: Grief, Hope, and Transitions) program. The research was guided by the question "Does the LYGHT program enhance the well-being of youth in foster care?" Findings suggest that the program is successful in enhancing well-being.

The researchers analyzed data from 42 youth ages 12 to 16 with foster care experience: 23 youth who were in the LYGHT program and 19 who were on the program's waitlist. The study used quantitative data compiled using questionnaires and qualitative data gathered from focus groups. Youth who participated in the LYGHT program showed increased levels of social support, hopefulness, and self-worth, and their perceived problems became more bearable.

For more information, read the report, Listening and Led by Youth in Foster Care: Grief, Hope, and Transitions: A Dougy Center Program: Research Findings 2021.