ABSTRACT
The growing number of orphaned and maltreated children and adolescents residing in family-like care centres, coupled with their notable incompatibility due to the physical and psychological challenges, represents a significant concern, particularly during critical developmental periods. Therefore, the present study was to develop a model of positive adaptation in adolescents residing in family-like care centres in Tehran, Iran. A qualitative grounded theory method was adopted for this study. The population consisted of maltreated and orphaned adolescents in care centres in Tehran. Among these, the Omid House centre was purposefully selected, and interviews were conducted with 10 adolescent girls aged 10–14 years. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and categorised into three dimensions: open, axial and selective coding, using Strauss and Corbin’s systematic analysis method. The results indicated that having an attitude of valuing the opportunity provided by the centres as a place for compensation and reinforcement for a healthy return to society can be a causal condition for the realisation of internal and external expansion strategies. Furthermore, a set of conditions, such as a meaning-centred religious upbringing and interaction patterns similar to those found in the centres, can pave the way for strengthening the internal and external dimensions of the individuals residing in these centres. The result of strengthening the internal and external dimensions is achieving a positive placement in the context of growth, which, along with positive acceptance and adaptation, can provide growth conditions for adolescent girls living in these centres. The results of this study can provide practical educational and strategic information for families, residents, staff and centres involved in the Welfare Organization’s programs at the micro and meso levels, aiming to improve the structural and interactive quality of these centres. At the macro level, redefining and approving laws related to social welfare for these adolescents can help address their personal and family issues and support their health and psychological and physical well-being in society.