Foster Care Training

Supporting system-involved youth (SIY) and especially those that are perpetrating violence, requires extra supports to transcend their negative past experiences and “acting out” that comes with it. SIY with sociopathic tendencies to meet their basic vital needs (Maslov Theory) may not respond to dopamine releasing praise from a caregiver or service/support provider. In order to guide these youth to find their way to build a rewarding, productive life with healthy relationships, will need structured guidance to heal their emotional wounds with empathy, (so they may have empathy for others), opportunities to make restitution, network support towards socially acceptable occupations and hobbies, along with strengths based life skills coaching to be successful to be positive members of society. In this interactive training, we will explore how to better support SIY who show harmful or perpetrating behaviors. We’ll look at the neuroscience of transforming sociopathic tendency behavior and learn strategies that help SIY foster emotional development, wellbeing, and healthy connection to their community – moving away from violence and criminal activity. We’ll also look at model programs for exiting gangs and perpetrating domestic violence abuse that lend themselves towards healing our society as a whole. The practices shared in this training will enhance the skills of participants to help SIY build emotional development and wellbeing as well as strengthen their resilience and ability to heal from traumatic events and lead a meaningful life. Practicing and sharing the methods outlined by this workshop will allow us to improve the practice of how we empower system-involved youth.