The impact of fostering on the foster carers’ relationship

Abstract

The aim of this study is to bring out the effects of fostering upon the relationship of foster carers. It looks at the difficulties and challenges encountered by the couples which in turn affect their relationship. Due to the topic being an under-researched area both internationally as well as locally, such qualitative study seeks to identify the situations which are mostly relevant to foster carers as well as highlight the need for improvement vis-a-vis the current social work service in terms of the on-going training and support which is currently being provided to foster carers. The research design of this study is qualitative in approach. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with twelve approved foster carers living in Malta and Gozo. The purpose of these interviews was to provide a narrative of the challenges that are experienced through fostering and how, according to the foster carers themselves, such challenges impinge upon one‟s relationship with his or her partner. The use of thematic analysis was employed to bring to the fore a number of themes throughout the process of data analysis. The study shows that foster care does indeed affect the relationship of the couple. Although the extent to which foster care affects their relationship was seen differently by each foster carer, results point towards the fact that pre-service training is not enough in relation to the real life challenges that are experienced, particularly with regards to relationship matters. Several stressors were mentioned by foster carers. These include tiredness, lack of time to communicate with other members of the family including partner and differences in disciplinary approaches among others. Social Work support was also highlighted as an ingredient which seems to be lacking in most of the participants‟ situations, whereby foster carers expressed their awareness of heavy caseloads being followed by Social Workers, thus limiting their time to focus on foster carers‟ relationship issues. Spirituality was a theme which featured commonly throughout. Participants have stressed the importance of seeking strength and patience when dealing with problems, and they acknowledged their faith as a means to cope with the demands of fostering. Sharing the responsibility of fostering with one‟s partner was another theme which has strongly come out through this study. Looking back on the findings, one can say that a stronger commitment towards relationship issues within the realm of foster care is required for the best interest of the children who are being fostered as well as that of the family who is providing this service.