Foster families in the Czech Republic: Evaluating their functioning and resilience

Abstract

This article from the field of family psychology is concerned with complex aspects of family functioning in Czech foster families. It summarizes the main points of an empirical research which involved 50 foster families participating in family foster care programmes. The theoretical background was a systems approach to the family and theories of family stress, coping and resilience. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used: detailed interviews with foster parents, home visits, observation of family interactions, and questionnaires. Characteristics of Czech foster families are reported, as well as features of resilience and effective coping strategies. The study revealed that psychologists are well-placed to support healthy family functioning and family resilience within the framework of professional services. Further, the importance of a qualitative approach is discussed in a broader context of family research.