John Paul Horn, MSW, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Social Work
Expertise
Child welfare, Queer foster youth, Emerging adulthood, Transition aged foster youth, Foster care policy, Identity development, Foster youth in college
Biography
I focus on qualitative and mixed-methods research that advances the voices of care leavers (former foster youth) as they emerge into adulthood. I use positive youth development and capital development theories to demonstrate how youth thrive despite unaddressed systemic issues that contribute to negative outcomes in adulthood. I also examine how these systems perpetuate structural violence by reinforcing systemic oppression. My goal is to improve practice and policy by identifying institutional-level barriers that inhibit healthy development for youth.
Unique life experiences
Grew up in foster care; Play inclusive sports; Sing with inclusive choirs