National Survey of Current and Former Foster Parents

摘要

This study collects and analyses data from a national representative sample ofcurrent and former foster parents in order to provide direction for future policy development. It identifies: (1) the characteristics of foster parents and differences between new foster parents and those who entered the system prior to 1980; (2) the differences between current and former foster parents; (3) the experiences of foster parents with foster children; and (4) agency practices regarding recruitment and retention of foster parents. A mailed questionnaire was sent to 1572 reachable current foster parents and 362 former foster parents in nine states; a 71 percent response rate was achieved. The study also addresses recruitment issues, finding that many current foster parents learned of the need for their services from other foster parents; many foster mothers had worked with mentally, physically, or emotionally handicapped children; and there is a need to recruit foster homes who will accept sibling groups. The report also addresses ways in which agencies can improve retention.