Risk and Protective Factors Affecting Children in Foster Care: A Pilot Study of the Role of Siblings*

Abstract

A retrospective chart review of 115 siblings (from 48 families) simultaneously taken into the care of a Children's Aid Society was conducted. These children were a very neglected group at great risk of developing mental illness. There was a significant correlation between the number of symptoms the child had while in the receiving home and the time spent in foster care. Protective factors correlated with fewer symptoms at home but not while the child was in care. Being in care resulted in better performance at school, fewer symptoms and involvement in more extracurricular activities. High risk children made up their losses. While in foster care, 53% were eventually separated from their siblings. Children were more likely to be separated from their siblings if they were older, their father was physically ill or their parents were separated. Children who were separated from their siblings had more risk factors and placements while in care. However, they had fewer symptoms and better school performance while they were in foster care and fewer symptoms at discharge than the siblings who stayed together.