Assistant Professor Annette Semanchin Jones, Associate Professor Barbara Rittner and PhD Alum Melissa Affronti publish article, "Foster Parent Strategies to Support the Functional Adaptation of Foster Youth"
Published May 10, 2016 This content is archived.
Congratulations to Assistant Professor Annette Semanchin Jones, Associate Professor Barbara Rittner and PhD alum Melissa Affronti on the publication of their article, "Foster Parent Strategies to Support the Functional Adaptation of Foster Youth," in the Journal of Public Child Welfare.
Semanchin Jones, A., Rittner, B., & Affronti, M. (2016). Foster Parent Strategies to Support the Functional Adaptation of Foster Youth. Journal of Public Child Welfare.
Abstract:
Individual interviews and focus groups with 35 experienced foster parents explored strategies that facilitate the functional adaptation of children transitioning into their care. Findings from this qualitative study suggest functional adaptation is enhanced by unconditional commitment by foster parents, “claiming” behaviors of foster children and parents, establishment of routines, support of birth family relationships, and advocacy for the youth across systems. Implications of this study support the vital role that foster parents have in helping children adapt to placement, and indicate that agencies can provide increased support for foster parents to better meet the needs of foster youth.