The impact of child placement on family bonds among parents

Abstract

This research study investigates the nature of child placement focusing on family bonds among parents. The study is motivated by three research questions which are 1) what are the experiences of parents through the identification of their emotions towards the placement of their children? 2) How does communication and interaction influence parent-child relationships 3) What social interventions are provided by social workers to parents with children in placement? The study seeks to advance the understanding why parents are a fundamental part of a child's life, immensely contributing to the development and growth of the child. If this link is not nurtured, it poses detrimental consequences later in the parent and children's lives. The study continues to evaluate the emotions of the parents and the methods of communication and interaction utilized during placement. This aimed at seeking clarity on the contribution communication and interaction make on social support. It emphasizes the need to strengthen social support systems in parent-child relations through supportive social interventions provided by social workers.

Semi-structured interviews were initiated with 4 parents who had their children placed by Child Protection Services. The interviews were initiated in Finnish and translated into English. The study found that the parents had voluntarily placed their children revealing no ill feelings towards the placement as they needed help. The parents continued to give their children varied forms of social support which improved communication and positively re-enforced parent-child relationship. The parents' psychosocial needs were not met by CPS and more could be done. Social workers provided social intervention which requires strengthening for the parents.

The findings offer insight into the need to listen to parents and their feelings, the importance of communication and interaction in parent-child relationships especially for children in placement. There is a need to identify further what constitutes as social support. Social workers need to continue to develop methods aimed at preserving family ties and attachments, such as parent-child relationships.