The Experience of Biological Children in the Foster Home
Loading...
Authors
Anderson, Emily A.
Issue Date
2012
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
"Content Analysis","Foster Care”,“Biological Child","Training","Qualitative Study","Family Systems Theory"
Alternative Title
Abstract
The involvement of the foster care system significantly affects the lives of foster children, foster parents, and the biological children of foster parents as well. Little research focuses on the experiences ofthe biological children living in a foster family setting, despite the direct impact that fostering may have on them. This qualitative, conventional content analysis study identifies factors which contribute to the positive and negative experiences ofthe biological children. Findings suggest that more services, resources, and trainings are necessary for foster families in order to adequately prepare them for the changes and transitions made when becoming involved with foster care. This study included 11 adult participants, four females and seven males. Participants were given a semi-structured interview with open-ended questions meant to provoke a detailed account of the experiences (both positive and negative) growing up with foster children. Consideration of the biological child living in the foster home setting were made by way of learning the factors which contribute to negative experiences in order to learn ways to prevent these experiences in the future. The hypothesis that trainings and preparations for fostering are currently inadequate was supported by the research findings in the study. Due to the expansive range of emotional and behavioral issues that foster children may present with, adequate preparation and training for all family members is necessary for positive and safe experience. This study provides evidence that the experiences of biological children in the foster home endure more difficulties and negative experiences with foster care when they are not prepared, warned, or provided with realistic expectations regarding the changes and transitions. Results indicated several ways in which living in foster home can adversely affect the emotional and physical well-being ofthe biological child in that home.