Background: According to recent research findings there is a prolonging in the transition to adulthood. Young adults become more and more dependent of their parents during this phase. Former foster children do not always receive sufficient support during their transition to adulthood.

Aim: To examine how former foster children describe their transition to adulthood, and furthermore what they include in the concept of adulthood.

Data and methods: We performed semi-structured interviews with six formed foster children, aged 19-29, in the Stockholm metropolitan area. We analysed the interviews using an abductive approach, applying theories by Giddens, Bauman and Mead which explore the relationship between the identity and norms and beliefs in society.

Results: The vulnerability varied according to the amount of support received during the transition to adulthood. All interviewees emphasized that independence and responsibility are the most important components in adulthood and the transition to adulthood. Furthermore, they had to take responsibility early on and thereby become adults at a younger age than their peers.

Conclusions: Former foster children experience a different transition to adulthood compared to their peers because of their instant adulthood, forced by early responsibility and their longing for independence.