The Needs of Foster Children and How to Satisfy Them: A Systematic Review of the Literature provides an invaluable resource for practitioners looking to enhance their skills in meeting the complex needs of foster children. This comprehensive review categorizes the needs of foster children into four primary areas: medical, belongingness, psychological, and self-actualization needs. Understanding and addressing these needs can significantly improve the outcomes for children in foster care.
Medical Needs
Foster children often have more complex medical needs compared to their peers. Practitioners should focus on:
- Regular health screenings and personalized treatment plans
- Multidisciplinary approaches to healthcare
- Training foster parents to manage complex medical conditions
Meeting these needs requires collaboration among healthcare providers, foster parents, and educators to ensure that children receive the necessary medical attention and support.
Belongingness Needs
Children in foster care need stable and supportive relationships. Practitioners can help by:
- Facilitating continuity in relationships with birth family members, especially siblings
- Encouraging secure attachments with foster parents
- Providing support from other adults and peers
Establishing a sense of belonging and emotional intimacy is crucial for the healthy development of foster children.
Psychological Needs
The psychological well-being of foster children is often overlooked. Practitioners should:
- Focus on developing self-esteem and coping skills
- Provide individualized mental health care
- Include children in decisions about their care
Addressing these needs can reduce the prevalence of mental health issues and improve overall well-being.
Self-Actualization Needs
Educational and personal development are key for foster children. Practitioners can support self-actualization by:
- Ensuring stability and connection to the same school
- Providing targeted interventions for learning difficulties
- Encouraging participation in extracurricular activities
Fostering an environment that promotes education and personal growth can help children in foster care achieve their full potential.
Implementing Research Findings
Practitioners should use the findings from this review to inform their practices and policies. By focusing on satisfying the needs of foster children, rather than just addressing their problems, practitioners can create a more supportive and effective care environment.To read the original research paper, please follow this link:
The Needs of Foster Children and How to Satisfy Them: A Systematic Review of the Literature.
