The relationship between problem disclosure, coping strategies and placement outcome in foster adolescents

Abstract

Adolescence has been described as a period where normal developmental stresses are dealt with depending on past experiences and current demands. Foster care inherently brings with it many additional stresses which must be dealt with at a period where many young people find even normal developmental tasks overpowering. This study examines problem disclosure and coping strategies in 21 foster adolescents. Highly significant results indicate that teenagers who have experienced crisis foster placements were more likely to disclose concern over parent and authority control over their lives. Additionally, these young people seemed more likely to use non-productive coping strategies when dealing with everyday problems.