A dynamic model of interdependencies

Overall, the theoretical framework is one of conceptualizing foster care as upbringing on behalf of society within an environment characterized by meaningful relationships, and in a wider context of a complex interplay of... [ view full abstract ]

Overall, the theoretical framework is one of conceptualizing foster care as upbringing on behalf of society within an environment characterized by meaningful relationships, and in a wider context of a complex interplay of processes and factors that might be called interdependence (Elias; Smith). Rather than a dyadic child-foster carer model, we need a multi-faceted ecological model of supporting young people in relation to their everyday life, cultural education and meaningful relationships

Developments which end up with a break down in foster care have certain characteristics:

• They are influenced by the interplay (interdependence) of characteristics in the foster child, characteristics of the foster family (including their environment) and its members as wells as characteristics of social services which organize and accompany foster care.

• All members of the foster family are actors who can influence stabilizing and de-stabilizing processes. Hence, their respective experiences and their difficulties – including those which result from their living together and everyday life – are important.

• Factors which are not directly related to the foster family or the role of the adults as foster carers might be relevant as well (diseases, separation, economic difficulties, etc.).

• The result „break down“ (defined as: unplanned sudden completion of foster care) is not predetermined by a single group of courses, but in the complex interplay of different factors.

• The dramaturgy of these processes must be understood in order to determine points where through specific support by social services de-escalation might be instigated and new option for capability might be disclosed (e.g. counseling for foster parents, parents and children; access for children to socialization partners beyond the foster family etc.)

• To reach this goal, the necessary knowledge can be acquired by a multiperspective reconstruction of break down processes.

• In doing so, we need a dynamic model of interdependencies (Elias; Gabriel & Mennell; Wolf): acceleration – deceleration; stages of increased vulnerability; construal of meaning.

Theoretical models influence the point of view of professionals and the course of action of the social services. For this reason they are not only relevant for research but also for practice.