| The purpose of this study was to examine issues related to lawsuits filed against private foster family agencies (FFAs), and the impact that potential or actual liability has on practice, policies, or service to children. An exploratory, qualitative research design was employed. The sample was comprised of 19 high level administrators in 17 foster family agencies in southern California.; The results suggest that the number of lawsuits filed against FFAs is increasing. Additionally, they imply that concerns about liability negatively influence many areas of practice in the foster care setting including stability for children, recruitment and retention of foster parents, and noncollaboration among the important agencies involved in the foster care system.; It is hoped that this study helps to illustrate how agencies are attempting to cope with this challenge, and will provide insight into ways to improve policy and practice such that reasonable legal accountability for misconduct is appropriately balanced against constructive, effective practice that keeps the best interests of foster children as the central concern. |
