Increasing parenting self-efficacy in foster carers: an evaluation of the attachment-centred parenting programme

Abstract

Children who have experienced significant early life adversities and trauma are at a greater risk of developing social, emotional, behavioural and mental-health needs. This can result in stress in the carer/parent–child relationship which can have a negative impact on placement stability. Recent research and national policies have stressed the need for good quality training for foster carers to support the complex needs of children in their care. The study reported comprises an evaluation of an Attachment-Centred Parenting (ACP) six session, evidence-based programme developed by the authors. The results highlighted a notable increase in the foster carers’ perception of their skills and competence in managing and understanding their children’s needs. There was also an increase in the carers’ sense of self-efficacy. Findings provide evidence that the ACP programme offers valuable support for foster carers, enabling them to parent therapeutically when faced with challenging behaviours and circumstances.