Abstract

Foster care is one of the many complex systems within the human services field. Although foster care is usually in the best interest of the children, it still causes lasting mental health effects and learning setbacks that the children carry into their adult lives. Some of the negative aspects of foster care and the trauma that comes with children being separated from their family can also be passed on through generations, if foster children are not treated properly.

This essay will dive deeper into studies of the foster system and how it takes a toll on the mental health and development of the children living within the system. The foster system is made up of very complex details that shape the health of children living within it. There are many different mental health disorders that could be linked to childhood trauma, so there will be focus on the health of people specifically involved with the foster care system, because, for most, it is a traumatic experience, even if they are placed with great families. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and other learning disorders are common in foster children.

Year Manuscript Completed

Fall 2021

Senior Project Advisor

Mr. George Barton

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Human Services

Document Type

Thesis

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