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Foster Care Experiences and Mental Health Outcomes Among Children Residing in Foster Homes in Rivers State, Nigeria

Onyinye Nwanzere Anaba Mezewo Obuzor, PhD and Stella Ortuka, PhD

Abstract

The mental health of children in foster care is strongly influenced by the quality and stability of their caregiving environments, yet empirical evidence from Nigeria remains limited. This study examined the relationship between foster care experiences and the mental health of children residing in foster homes in Rivers State, Nigeria. Guided by Attachment and Ecological Systems Theories, the study investigated the relationship between foster care experiences and cognitive well-being; assessing whether age at placement influences emotional well-being among children aged 8–17 years. A convergent parallel mixed-method design was adopted. Quantitative data were collected from 182 children selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure involving stratified random sampling across six foster homes, using a structured questionnaire comprising of socio-demographic items and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire . Qualitative data were obtained through Focus Group Discussions with 11 purposively selected participants. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation and independent-samples t-tests, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between supportive foster care experiences and children's cognitive well-being. However, age at placement was not significantly associated with emotional well-being. Qualitative findings corroborated the quantitative results, highlighting the importance of responsive caregiving, stable routines and emotional support. The study concludes that caregiving quality, rather than placement timing, is a key determinant of children's mental health and recommends strengthening caregiver training alongside standardized mental health screening and psychosocial support within foster care settings.

Keywords

Children Mental HealthFoster CareFoster HomeCaregiver and Child Welfare System.

References

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