What makes a good foster parent? : exploring the value system of foster caregivers

Kothencz János: What makes a good foster parent? : exploring the value system of foster caregivers. In: Belvedere Meridionale, (37) 1. pp. 183-188. (2025)

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This study investigates the value system inherent in foster parenting to clarify the perceived importance of various characteristics attributed to a „good foster parent.” Utilizing a quantitative approach, foster parents were asked to rate fourteen predefined traits, categorized into moral expectations, practical skills, and given attributes. The findings largely confirmed the initial hypothesis that moral values would be rated highest, while attributes like strictness or religious practice would show more varied responses. Notably, practical aspects such as the willingness to seek and accept help, and viewing foster care as a vocation, were also ranked among the most crucial characteristics. Conversely, self-sacrifice was deemed relatively less important than anticipated. The study reveals that the perceived importance of these values is predominantly personality-dependent, showing minimal correlation with socio-cultural backgrounds or specific aspects of the foster parents’ careers, apart from minor links between altruism and education level, and vocational commitment with long-term fostering plans. These insights carry significant implications for the recruitment, training, and support of foster parents.

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