Home away from home: factors associated with current functioning in children living in a residential treatment setting

Abstract

Objective: While recent research has focused on the impact of abuse and other interpersonal traumas in childhood, little attention has been given to the experiences of children who have been removed from their homes. In addition to trauma, these children are likely to have had a number of experiences that may impact their current functioning. The purpose of this study was to provide descriptive information pertaining to the unique characteristics of children in residential treatment centers, and to examine preliminary factors believed to be associated with current functioning. Methods: Participants included 41 children, aged 7–12, recruited from two treatment centers in the rural Midwest. Children were administered the Trauma Symptom Checklist for Children (TSCC) and participated in a brief interview. Each child’s primary caregiver at the facility completed the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Results: Results of the descriptive analyses painted a picture of chaotic childhood marked by significant stress and trauma. Gender, child’s satisfaction with current discharge plan, and multiple traumatic experiences were found to be associated with variations in symptomatology. Conclusions: Findings may assist service providers and caregivers in understanding the unique experiences of this population.