Understanding the Relationship Between Birth and Foster Parents: A Systematic Review

It has been suggested that having a positive relationship between birth and foster parents is important to the success of the child’s placement in foster care and the reunification process. Nevertheless, little is known about the specificities of this relationship, such as what factors may influence its establishment and maintenance. This study aims to systematically review the empirical literature on the relationship between birth and foster parents of children placed in foster care. The review followed the PRISMA checklist and guidelines, and searches were conducted on the Web of Science and Scopus databases. It includes quantitative and qualitative research written in English that focused on birth parents of children placed in foster care, as well as foster parents who had no kinship with the child. A total of twenty-two studies were reviewed. Findings indicate that the relationship between birth and foster parents is shaped by four key elements: the intentions and efforts to cooperate, the quality of contact and communication, the role expectations, and perceptions of professional support. Results also point to a lack of studies on both parties’ perspectives regarding their relationship. This review identified important elements that may help create psychoeducational programs better suited to each family’s circumstances and needs, as well as promote a positive environment for the child and all parties involved. Cooperating efforts, quality of communication, role expectations, and perceived professional support were recognized as key elements of the relationship between birth and foster parents. Prior clarification of each one’s role and responsibilities towards the child during foster care is required. Perceived training and support play an important role in how birth and foster parents evaluate the importance of their relationship.