Bilan critique de 50 ans d’études sur le devenir adulte des enfants placés

Abstract: This article is a methodological and thematic analysis of various studies on adulthood outcome of ex-care children. Over 30 studies from different disciplines have been listed in France and abroad over the past 50 years. They reflect a change both in themes and in methods. Retrospective studies have been replaced by prospective ones and the observation of social integration over time, thus limiting interpretation errors. Thematically, the tendency to emphasize risk factors (delinquency, alcoholism, intergenerational repetition of child placement) has given way to the enhancement of protective factors (education, occupation, housing situation, health, social support, relationship). Although each case is unique, and contrary to general belief, the social integration of former foster children seems to improve with age. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]