Foster Care vs. Extended Family Care for Children of Incarcerated Mothers

Abstract

This research compares the quality of the substitute care being provided to children in the care of relatives by reason of their mothers' incarceration, with care provided by foster parents. The quality of care from the foster families, assessed with the HOME Inventory was rated significantly better than from relatives for the 3-6 year old children, but equal for the infants and toddlers. The comparatively higher SES Foster care providers also reported more available support from informal social networks and more appropriate expectations and non-abusive discipline toward the children in their care.