Latent profile analysis of risk and protective factors among foster parents: A cross-sectional study

Foster parents serve a critical role in child welfare systems. However, foster parents express dissatisfaction in their roles as caregivers, thus impacting placement stability. Placement disruption has many negative impacts on foster youth including delayed permanency, increased behavioral symptoms, and negative educational outcomes. Utilizing a cross-sectional design, this survey study collected data from 362 foster parents in six states. Results from a latent profile analysis indicated a three-profile solution was found, representing three subpopulations of foster parents, subsequently named Resourceful, Strained, and Disadvantaged Foster Parents. Differences between groups on indicators were noted in scores on burnout, secondary-traumatic stress, social support, thoughts on training usefulness, and foster parent satisfaction. Added covariates showed significant differences among group make-up on foster youth behavioral issues, and foster parent race. Foster parent profiles were explored in relation to intention to turnover and disrupt current foster youth placement. There were significant differences across all profiles on turnover and placement disruption intent. These findings give insight into the training and support needs of foster parents.