"Foster Care is a Roller Coaster": A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Foster Parent Experiences with Caregiving

Foster parents serve a critical role in the child welfare system; however, many report being dissatisfied with their role. As such, dissatisfied foster parents are at risk of disruption and turnover, ultimately resulting in placement moves for youth in care. Placement moves have negative impacts on youth well-being, prompting a need to explore issues related to placement longevity related to foster parent satisfaction. This mixed-methods study included foster parents in six mid-Southwestern states who participated in an online survey between June 2021 and January 2022. First, this study explored foster parent satisfaction with intent to turnover and disrupt placement in 362 foster parents through regression analyses. Next, open-ended responses for 130 foster parents were thematically analyzed to explore their nuanced caregiving experiences. Findings from the regression analyses suggest there are statistically significant differences in types of satisfaction experiences related to intent to turnover and disrupt placement. The qualitative inquiry resulted in finding three salient themes: Foster parents (1) possess a strong commitment to the children and youth they care for, (2) experience affirming rewards and complex struggles while caring for children and youth, and (3) are impacted by layers of failures within and seek transformation of the child welfare system. These findings provide insight into the needs and experiences of foster parents related to enhancing longevity of care. Moreover, findings suggest needed changes in child welfare practice and policy to support foster-parent retention and caregiving.