A COMPARISON OF KINSHIP FOSTER HOMES AND FOSTER FAMILY HOMES - IMPLICATIONS FOR KINSHIP FOSTER-CARE AS FAMILY PRESERVATION

In recent years, child welfare caseloads have expanded rapidly, and in creasing numbers of children have been placed with kin. Much of the cu rrent discussion surrounding kinship foster care stems from its rapid growth and the paucity of information about the placement type compare d to our knowledge of other forms of foster care. The study reported h ere provides information about kinship foster care and foster family c are focusing on the demographic characteristics of providers; the serv ices providers receive; the children served in care; and issues of vis itation with birth parents. The study highlights marked differences in providers and in the services they receive. Policy and practice consi derations in the development of this field are also offered.