The Restorative Frame: A Grounded Theory Study of Protective Factors for Foster Care Disruptions

Abstract

This study used grounded theory to explore the protective factors for foster care placement disruptions. Twenty-two interviews were conducted with foster parents, caseworkers and therapists involved with 14 older children or sibling sets who had undergone placement disruptions and were at high risk of experiencing future disruptions. A theoretical model of parental dispositional traits was developed with the aim of informing efforts to mitigate place-based causes for disruptions. This theory proposes a framework of four protective processes (active adaptability, relational resilience, deferential advocacy and seeking support) that mitigate common place-based causes of disruption (stress, lack of control, resource constraints and unmet expectations). The theory extends Belsky's Determinants of Parenting Model to foster parenting with three modifications. Practice implications include training and assessment materials on restorative framing in foster care, including licensing classes and caseworker guidance for placement decisions.