Social Network Enhancement: Bridging and Bonding the Social Networks of Child Welfare Involved Youth

Abstract

A supportive social network is crucial for the well‐being of child welfare involved youth; however, their social networks are often small and/or unable to provide necessary support. Child welfare workers can play an important role in strengthening and expanding the social networks of youth. In this Norwegian study, 15 child welfare workers' experiences with social network enhancement were examined using semi‐structured interviews. Data analysis applied a social capital lens to identify whether and how this framework could enhance our understanding of this issue. Study findings highlight three main objectives, implemented to (a) strengthening the youth's existing network, (b) supporting the youth to take part in (new) social arenas and (c) cultivating the youth's social skills and relationship building. Findings suggest that this approach can contribute to the development of bonding and bridging social capital. Within all objectives and associated strategies, trusting relationships between youth and child welfare workers were considered a prerequisite for success. Several barriers and impeding factors were also identified, such as the limited size of the social networks or lack of social skills. These barriers show how social network enhancement can be complicated, in actual practice.