Examining the predictors on welfare receipt among youth in out-of-home care: Using administrative data

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to examine the predictors on welfare receipt among youth in out-of-home care (youth preparing for independence) by using administrative data including the Social Welfare Facilities Information System and the Social Security Information System. Methods: The study analyzed 12,280 youth in out-of-home care, and the logistic regression models using Stata 15.0 was employed to examine the associations between sociodemographic characteristics, out-of-home care characteristics, and welfare receipt including self-reliance allowance, Child Development Account (Didim Seed Account), and the National Basic Livelihood Security benefits. Results: First, the study found that the younger youth, who stayed for a longer period at out-of-home care, youth in foster care, youth with higher educational level, and unemployed youth were less likely to receive self-reliance allowance when compared to older, youth who stayed for a shorter period at out-of-home care, youth in childcare facilities, youth with lower education, and employed youth. Second, female, the older, youth who stayed shorter period at out-of-home care, youth in foster care, and youth with higher education level were less likely to open the Child Development Account when compared to male, the younger, youth who stayed for a longer period at out-of-home care, youth in childcare facilities and group homes, and youth with lower educational level. Third, male, the older, youth who stayed for a shorter period at out-of-home care, youth in foster care, youth with higher educational level, and employed youth were less likely to receive the Livelihood Benefits including medical and housing assistance when compared to female, the younger, youth who stayed for a longer period at out-of-home care, youth in childcare facilities, youth with lower educational level, and unemployed youth. Conclusions: Based on the findings, the study suggests implications for promoting the use of welfare receipt among youth in out-of-home care.