A new article by Paula Ferreira , co-authored with Mara Ricardo, has recently been published in Children and Youth Services Review. The study, developed within the framework of the D’AR-TE Project, analyses how social support mechanisms can positively influence the emotional, relational, and behavioural development of children and young people living in residential care.
Using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative data with qualitative insights, the research examines how residents perceive support from family, peers, and care professionals. The findings point to improvements in perceived family and peer support, stronger emotional bonds with care workers, enhanced communication, and better behavioural self-regulation.
The article highlights the relevance of relationship-based and arts-informed interventions in fostering autonomy, emotional regulation, and social adaptability among young people in care. It also underlines how meaningful interpersonal relationships can mitigate internalising challenges, such as anxiety and low self-esteem, as well as externalising behaviours.
Published as an open-access article, this research offers valuable evidence for academics, practitioners, and policymakers engaged in improving residential care practices and child protection systems.
Accessible link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0190740926000356