THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PROBLEM DISCLOSURE, COPING STRATEGIES AND PLACEMENT OUTCOME IN FOSTER ADOLESCENTS

Adolescence has been described as a period where normal developmental stresses are dealt with depending on past experiences and current dema nds. Foster care inherently brings with it many additional stresses wh ich must be dealt with at a period where many young people find even n ormal developmental tasks overpowering. This study examines problem di sclosure and coping strategies in 21 foster adolescents. Highly signif icant results indicate that teenagers who have experienced crisis fost er placements were more likely to disclose concern over parent and aut hority control over their lives. Additionally, these young people seem ed more likely to use non-productive coping strategies when dealing wi th everyday problems. (C) 1998 The Association for Professionals in Se rvices for Adolescents.