Ball, B., Hoefer, S., Ding, X., Sevillano, L., & Faulkner, M. (2023). Promoting healthy relationships in foster care: “If I had seen what a healthy relationship looks like, that would have changed my perspective.” Violence Against Women. https://doi.org/10.1177/10778012231199106
A new study from TXICFW researchers explores healthy relationships in foster care through interviews with youth in care.
High levels of intimate partner violence among youth and young adults with history in foster care can perpetuate the cycle of violence and abuse. It is therefore important to understand how the experience of growing up in foster care impacts youths’ understanding and formation of intimate relationships.
Findings revealed missed opportunities to promote healthy relationships. From the perspective of the youth, foster care modeled controlling or disconnected relationships, and did not provide them with working models for healthy relationships. There was a consensus among participants that being in foster care limited opportunities for developing friendships, dating relationships, and exploring their identities. Particularly striking was the widespread absence of conversations with caregivers about dating and sexuality. These findings confirmed previous studies with caregivers and child welfare professionals that revealed discomfort with such conversations and barriers including a lack of training and guidance, confusion about their role and responsibilities, and conflicting values with the youth in their care.
Ball, B., Hoefer, S., Ding, X., Sevillano, L., & Faulkner, M. (2023). Promoting healthy relationships in foster care: “If I had seen what a healthy relationship looks like, that would have changed my perspective.” Violence Against Women. https://doi.org/10.1177/10778012231199106