Joining New Families: A Study of Adoption and Fostering in Middle Childhood

Joining New Families is based on a research study which followed 61 children who were placed, between 5 and 9 years old, with adoptive or permanent foster families. Most of the children had previously been maltreated. The study focused on the problems and strengths that these children brought to their new families; how the new families coped; and the factors associated with the placements becoming stable and secure. The authors provide a detailed presentation of the findings from this unique study and highlight the implications for policy and practice. Key factors examined include

• the children's pre-placement experiences
• the quality of preparatory work with the children and families
• the characteristics of the new parents and their parenting style
• the children's emotional and behavioural difficulties
• the development of relationships within the new family
• the type and quality of post-placement support

Presenting new information and recommendations for future placements, Joining New Families is a valuable resource for anyone involved in establishing permanent placements for older children.