Abstract

This study develops an intervention program for Korean adolescent single mothers and evaluate its effectiveness in promoting their preparation for independence. The program comprised of 10 group counseling sessions based on the findings from a survey and in-depth interview research. Nine single mothers under the age of 24 who were planning to leave the primary residential care with their children participated in the program. To examine its effectiveness, the intervention group’s will for independence, perceived efficacy in child-rearing, current level of independence and self-esteem were assessed before-, after-intervention, and at 2-week follow-up to compare the levels with those in the control group (n = 9). In results, before- and after-intervention will for independence enhanced significantly, and the improvement was maintained at 2-week follow-up. Although before- and after-intervention efficacy in child-rearing did not show a significant difference between their levels, it was enhanced significantly at the follow-up. Lastly, after-intervention and the follow-up emotional independence showed a significant enhancement, despite the insignificant difference when compared the levels before- and after-intervention. Practical implications and limitations of this program, and suggestions for future studies were discussed.