Geborge binding van kinders in substituutsorg : die voorbereiding van substituut-ouers

Abstract

Children often need to be placed in substitute care as the result of inadequate carers / parents who abuse and mistreat them. Children in substitute care find it very difficult to adapt to mo re positive circumstances and therefore display difficult behaviour. The substitute carers therefore experience difficulty in handling these children, which often results in the children needing to be placed again. It seems as if the way in which a child attaches to the primary caregiver in their early years can determine how this child will function later in life. The secure attachment process is the foundation on which further positive relationships with other people and with the child him/herself are built. There are clear similarities between behavioural and emotional problems and early mother separation. It appears that there is a lack of knowledge and understanding regarding the origin of these problems as well as with regard to correct approaches to such problems. The substitute carers need to be supported in order to understand t he children, and therefore it is neccessary to support the carers in ways to build attachments between the carer and child. Goals: The primary aim of this study is to determine what kind of knowledge and equipment the substitute carers need in order to provide in the necessary attachment needs of the children in their care. Method: Research was conducted by means of the qualitative method. Information was gathered through the semi-structured interview method, questionnaires were sent to carers, and observations were made during the intervening period. An independent professional person was used to perform the assessments and to verify the results of the assessment and research. Triangulation of the research was done. Results: Results of the research were as follows: Although the research follows a qualitative approach, hypotheses are formulated which can be used for further dissectation regarding the provision in attachment needs of middle childhood phase children who are in substitute care.