Foster Parent Demographics: A Research Note

Authors

Kathleen M. Kirby, University of Louisville

Abstract

Data were collected on a random sample of 218 foster parents in Michigan during Fall, 1991 regarding socioeconomic characteristics, licensure arrangement with placement agencies, foster parenting experiences, life experiences, reasons for entering, and satisfaction with foster parenting. Respondents are predominately female (77%), White (78%), educated beyond high school (63%), with an annual family income (excluding foster care payments) over $26,000. Most are Protestant (78%), currently married (79%), and married once (71%). The average foster home cares for 3 children with 1.5 foster children currently placed. Median number of placements is 8 with families typically fostering numerous categories of children. Replacement of foster children occurred in 21% of the sample with less than 24 hours notice.

Recommended Citation

Kirby, Kathleen M. (1997) "Foster Parent Demographics: A Research Note," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 24: Iss. 2, Article 10.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.2421
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol24/iss2/10