Balancing permanency and stability for youth in foster care

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2009.12.009 Byline: Tonia Stott, Nora Gustavsson Keywords: Permanency planning; Placement stability; Foster care youth; Aging out; Relational permanence; Foster care Abstract: Youth aging out of the foster care system are at risk for poor outcomes. Little is known about the etiology of these outcomes. However, placement instability may be one contributor. Permanency planning as a policy was well-intentioned. However, for adolescents likely to age out of care, the policy may actually contribute to placement instability. A review of the elements of permanency reveals a complex concept which emphasizes continuity of relationships. Federal permanency legislation and state policy may be in conflict with this goal, especially for youth who age out of care. We review the challenges faced by youth aging out of care, their placement histories, permanency planning as a policy and practice, and suggest modifications to permanency planning to facilitate the development and maintenance of the stable social networks essential for successful transitions to adulthood. Author Affiliation: Arizona State University, School of Social Work, MC 3920, 411 N. Central Ave., Ste. #800, Phoenix, AZ 85249, United States Article History: Received 4 October 2009; Revised 8 December 2009; Accepted 14 December 2009