Publication Date

2013

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Department

School for Social Work

Keywords

Foster children-Psychology, Foster home care-Psychological aspects, Stigma (Social psychology)

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of stigma on foster care alumni. Participants were asked about their experiences in foster care related to stigma and how this may have affected their relationships and personal development. They were also prompted to share any other information the researcher may have missed. Six men were interviewed for this study between the ages of 19 and 37. The interviews provided rich information about how they interpreted the stigma and what short and long-term effects were results of this stigma. Additionally, the majority of participants who identified stigma described it having negative effects on their self-image. Although this was a difficult population to recruit, in the future, there should be more exploratory research done on the effects of stigma on such a vulnerable population.

Language

English

Comments

iii, 85 p. Thesis (M.S.W.)--Smith College School for Social Work, 2013. Includes bibliographical references (p. 75-78)

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