An exploration of sibling contact for children in foster care

Cooper, Amanda

An exploration of sibling contact for children in foster care

Files

2013_AmandaCooper.pdf(569.71 KB)

Published Version

Date

2013-05-07

Authors

Cooper, Amanda

Publisher

Community-Academic Research Links, University College Cork

Abstract

This research study contributes to research in the area of sibling contact for children in foster care. Undertaken in collaboration with the Irish Foster Care Association in Waterford, this study aims to explore sibling contact based on the retrospective experiences of adults formerly in foster care in Waterford. At present, much of the research on this important topic is based in the United States and the United Kingdom and so does not necessarily relate to the Irish context. This study provides valuable insight into children’s experiences of continued contact with their siblings, from whom they were separated during foster care; looking at the role of legislation and policy, the nature and frequency of contact and the facilitators and barriers to contact in terms of maintaining sibling relationships. As a social work student, this study has important implications for practice and offers recommendations for improving the quality of children’s experiences of contact while in foster care, which has proven to have a significant influence on the development and maintenance of these important relationships.

Keywords

Sibling contact , Children in foster care , Irish Foster Care Association , Waterford

Citation

Cooper, A. (2013) An exploration of sibling contact for children in foster care. Cork: Community-Academic Research Links, University College Cork.