A scoping review of the program components, practice components, and outcomes of behaviour support programs delivered to children and young people in out-of-home care

Abstract

Children and young people (CYP) in out-of-home care (OOHC) are at risk of experiencing behavioural challenges that can impact their well-being and development. Despite the critical need for effective behaviour support in these settings, research has predominantly focused on educational and disability contexts, leaving a gap in understanding how behaviour support is provided to CYP in OOHC. We address this gap by conducting a scoping review to identify when, where, and how behaviour support programs have been provided to CYP in OOHC, and their outcomes. A total of 25 studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies were conducted in a range of OOHC settings, including foster care, residential care, clinics, and community-based environments. The programs evaluated varied across studies and included Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Positive Behaviour Support (PBS). Common program components included behaviour assessments, skills teaching interventions, and relationship-based interventions. Common practice components included child-centred planning and family/carer training. Fewer studies incorporated aspects of trauma-informed practice and culturally responsive practice. Outcomes were less often directly measured and varied across studies. Findings highlight the need for tailored behaviour support approaches that consider the diverse settings and unique needs of CYP in OOHC.