Maximizing the Efficacy of Foster Care: Research-Based Enhancements to Foster Care Programs

Abstract

Abused and neglected children entering foster care often exhibit abnormal development in a number of domains, including neurological maturation, psychological functioning, social relationships, and cognitive abilities. Foster parents offering safe, enriching environments may stimulate recovery by providing affected children with the security and encouragement needed for growth, development, and learning. Increased foster parent educational opportunities and program adjustments can ameliorate the challenges foster parents face and enhance their ability to provide an optimal environment for children in their care. Despite increased initial costs, implementation of research-backed training for foster parents and system-wide program enhancements ultimately proves more cost-effective than the status quo while enhancing the lifetime functioning of abused and neglected foster children.