Publication year: 2011
Source: Children and Youth Services Review, In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 25 March 2011
Janet, Morrison , Faye, Mishna , Charlene, Cook , Gail, Aitken
ObjectiveTo report findings from a study of the perceptions of foster parents, child protection workers and children regarding supervised access visits for children who are permanent wards (Crown wards). Methods: Interviews were conducted with twenty-four Crown wards having regular supervised access visits. Eight focus groups were conducted with twenty-four foster parents, and twenty-six child protection workers. Interviews and focus groups explored perspectives regarding supervised access visits. Interviews and focus groups were transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed. Negative case analysis, prolonged engagement, and triangulation contributed to the trustworthiness of the research. Results: While this study is explorative, findings suggest considerable dissatisfaction regarding access visits among…
Research Highlights: ►Dissatisfaction with access visits among foster parents and workers ►Inadequate training for workers and foster parents ►Lack of communication and consultation regarding access visits ►Confusion regarding the roles of supervisors and the purpose of access visits ►Inadequate attention paid to children’s ambivalent feelings toward mothers