Thorpe, R.M., Klease, C.J., and Westerhuis, D. (2005) Challenging practice in foster care. Foster carers' reflections on working with a child's natural family: implications for education, training and support. In: Papers from the Third Annual Conference on International Research Perspectives on Child and Family Welfare 2005. pp. 1-22. From: Challenging Practices: CROCCS 2005 Conference, 5-7 August 2005, Mackay, QLD, Australia.

PDF (Published Version) - Published Version Restricted to Repository staff only

Abstract

Working with natural families is widely acknowledged as one of the more challenging aspects of present day fostering practice. Thus, as part of a large in-depth interview study with 115 foster carers in the Mackay Whitsunday region of Queensland, issues about working with a foster child’s natural family were explored in some detail. In this paper the views and diverse experiences of these foster carers will be examined, with attention focussed on different challenges faced by foster carers with different experiences. Vignettes of exemplary practice in challenging situations will be presented in order to identify what works well in different circumstances. Implications education, training, and support for foster carers will be suggested.

Item ID:	906
Item Type:	Conference Item (Research - E1)
Keywords:	foster carers; natural parents; foster parents; birth relatives; empathy
Date Deposited:	19 Oct 2006
FoR Codes:	16 STUDIES IN HUMAN SOCIETY > 1607 Social Work > 160702 Counselling, Welfare and Community Services @ 100%
SEO Codes:	94 LAW, POLITICS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES > 9401 Community Service (excl. Work) > 940105 Childrens/Youth Services and Childcare @ 100%
Downloads:	Total: 107
	More Statistics