Date of Paper
5-2013
Type of Paper
Clinical research paper
Degree Name
Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
Department
Social Work
First Advisor
Kendra Garrett
Department/School
Social Work
Abstract
Purpose: This research strives to understand challenges of parents adopting foster children. Design and Methods: A qualitative, semi-structured interview was used to collect data from 11 social workers on their experiences working with adoptive parents. Findings: Findings indicate clear challenges/needs for these adoptive parents pursuing. Identified needs include quality training/education, desirable parental qualities, adoption-competent professionals, support, and resources to help with challenges brought by adoptive parents, the child and system. Implications: Findings enforce the importance of best practices though continuing research and the need for improvements to policy and practice. Several policy suggestions are made include ensuring timely delivery of information to adoptive parents, listing of all available children on the state adoption exchange, and to eliminate adoption disincentives.
Recommended Citation
Thibodeau, Lisa C.. (2013). Foster Care Adoption: An Overview of Challenges Experienced by Parents. Retrieved from Sophia, the St. Catherine University repository website: https://sophia.stkate.edu/msw_papers/267