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Reunification of foster children: Factors associated with reunification outcomes in Flanders and the Netherlands

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  • Goemans, Anouk
  • Vanderfaeillie, Johan
  • Damen, Harm
  • Pijnenburg, Huub
  • Van Holen, Frank

Abstract

Although a significant number of foster children eventually return to their birth parents, evidence-based models for permanency planning are scarce, and there is a lack of clear decision-making criteria for reunification. This study aimed to establish further knowledge about reunification. Both reunification pace and factors which are associated with reunification were examined. The focus was on factors related to the foster child, the birth parents, the foster parents and the foster placement, and reasons for removal. Case file analysis was performed for 580 Flemish and Dutch foster children ages 0–18. Cox regression analyses showed contact with birth parents to be most strongly associated with reunification. Moreover, particularly placement related factors (e.g., legal framework, additional support services, contact with birth parents) increased the likelihood of reunification. Furthermore, over a period of six years approximately 15% of foster placements led to reunification notably during the first 2.5years of placement. Policy makers and foster care professionals are therefore encouraged to timely aim for permanency planning. Reunification efforts should be planned from the start of the foster placement. If subsequently reunification proves not feasible, permanency should be secured within the foster family.

Suggested Citation

  • Goemans, Anouk & Vanderfaeillie, Johan & Damen, Harm & Pijnenburg, Huub & Van Holen, Frank, 2016. "Reunification of foster children: Factors associated with reunification outcomes in Flanders and the Netherlands," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 70(C), pages 284-292.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:70:y:2016:i:c:p:284-292
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2016.09.023
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Vanderfaeillie, Johan & Borms, Dorien & Teunissen, M.S.L. & Gypen, Laura & Van Holen, Frank, 2023. "Reasons used by Flemish foster care workers in family reunification decision making," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 144(C).
    3. Balsells Bailón, M. Àngels & Urrea-Monclús, Aida & Vaquero Tió, Eduard & Fernández-Rodrigo, Laura, 2022. "The voices of children, mothers, and fathers: Can parenting programs improve reunification processes in the Spanish child protection system?," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 94(C).
    4. van Rooij, F.B. & van der Put, C. & Maaskant, A.M. & Folkeringa, D. & Hermanns, J.M.A., 2019. "Risk assessment for foster placement breakdown: The predictive value of the strengths and difficulties questionnaire and foster child and foster family characteristics," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 100(C), pages 353-361.

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