CHAPTER 8: Family-Bonding with High Risk Placements

Abstract

Summary Adoptions of emotionally disturbed children are frequently considered high risk placements. Typically these adoptees have life histories that often have been traumatic. Such placements require that two distinct systems-the adoptee and the family-merge into one as the new family readjusts. With substantial risk inherent in these placements, post-placement services that assist the process of becoming a family are critically needed. This chapter presents a health focused, psychoeducational model that addresses the entire family. Based on a conceptualization of the phases that a family experiences in the post-placement period, the model includes several therapeutic interventions designed to facilitate understanding of the family's experiences. A study on factors related to families' participation in this post-placement service which highlights the importance of external supports is presented. This preventive model