Parental and co-parental representations among former foster children: Comparing those with and without children

Abstract

Background

The transition to parenthood and coparenting is a period charged with individual and relational challenges, particularly for people who have been in care. Because of their original family model, most formerly fostered individuals choose to initiate new models.

Objectives

The purpose of this study will be to explore the representations of the roles of parent and co-parent by formerly fostered individuals, in order to observe differences or similarities between parenthood as it is imagined, experienced or desired by two groups of participants.

Participants

These two groups will be composed respectively of 15 formerly fostered adults who are already parents and 15 formerly fostered adults who have no children.

Method

A research interview, including questions specific to parental and co-parental representations, was conducted with each participant. The content of these interviews was analyzed using a qualitative thematic approach.

Findings

Participants without children have a confused and distressing representation of parenthood and coparenting. For participants who are already parents, parenthood is a priority, which leads to the use of compensatory, withdrawal, or control strategies in their roles as parents and co-parents.

Conclusion

This study contributes to the understanding of the family dynamics of formerly fostered adults, and the challenges they face before, during and after the transition to parenthood and coparenting. It also highlights the need for supportive interventions that are adapted to these specific steps.