Children in kinship care: How do they fare?

Abstract

The placement of children in need of out-of-home care with relatives (i.e., kinship care) has been an increasing trend. The study summarized in this paper represents the first comprehensive assessment of the physical and mental health and educational status of children in kinship care. The anticipated high risk status of these children was supported by study findings in all areas of assessment. These findings are discussed and recommendations are offered for policy, practice and future research.