Experiences of Amish and Old Order Mennonite Families in Providing Foster Care for Children

Abstract

This inductive, exploratory research project used thematic analysis to examine the experiences of Amish and Old Order Mennonite (Plain Anabaptist) foster parents in providing foster care to mainstream (non-Plain) children, including factors related to children’s trauma and disabilities, discipline, and families’ perceptions of support from their communities. Through purposive and snowball sampling, researchers gathered data from 24 families in either focus groups or dyad interviews in four U.S. states. The experiences of Plain Anabaptist foster families were characterized by participants as both satisfying and challenging. Plain Anabaptist families were receptive to learning and adapting to provide foster care, especially for babies, young children, and children with disabilities. Research findings illuminate several areas in which those recruiting or working with Plain Anabaptist foster parents should be aware.