Mills, Steve, Preston, Laurie and Trivasse, Heidi (2025) ‘Naming the unnameable’: A service evaluation of a reflective practice group for foster carers. Adoption & Fostering, 49 (2). pp. 167-186. ISSN 1740-469X

Full text not yet available from this repository.

Abstract

This study evaluated a reflective practice group designed to support foster carers and promote secure attachments with their foster children. Eight foster carers in South East England participated in the evaluation. A mixed-methods approach was employed: quantitative measures assessed reflective functioning, parental self-efficacy and parental stress pre- and post-intervention; qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with five participants and analysed using thematic analysis. Results indicated improvements in one domain of reflective functioning. Qualitative findings highlighted themes such as the group providing a safe and therapeutic space, enhanced emotional wellbeing, and strengthened carer–child relationships. Overall, participants found the group beneficial and appropriate. The evaluation suggests that reflective practice groups may positively impact foster carers’ reflective capacities and caregiving experiences. Further research with a larger sample is recommended to substantiate these findings.​

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	child looked after, foster carers, attachment, reflective practice, group intervention
Subjects:	Children, Young People and Developmental Pyschology > Adoption & Fostering- Psychology Emotions, Affective Psychology > Attachment/Affectional Bonds Families > Parent Child Relations/Parenthood
Department/People:	Department of Education and Training
URI:	https://repository.tavistockandportman.ac.uk/id/eprint/3045

Actions (Library Staff login required)

View Item