An Exploratory Study into the Needs of Kinship Caregivers in Ohio
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Date
2024-05
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The Ohio State University
Abstract
Compared to foster care, kinship care, where a child is being raised by a relative or family friend, has more positive child well-being outcomes. Despite this, there is a lack of evidence-based support interventions for kinship caregivers. This exploratory study used a combination of demographic questions, established scales, and qualitative questions to better understand the experiences of kinship caregivers in Ohio. The primary aims of this study were to (1) learn about what supports kinship caregivers are receiving and how adequate they are, and (2) explore what supports would help make the caregiving process more manageable for kinship caregivers. A total of 65 kinship caregivers, recruited from kinship-serving agencies completed the online survey. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests were used to explore associations between three categories of race, four categories of marital status, and the individual items and sum of items on the FRS and FSS scales. Nvivo was used to look at the three open-ended questions. Findings included the identification of common challenges such as children’s behavioral issues and supports that are helpful such as financial assistance, counseling, and childcare. Based on the findings, a comprehensive intervention for kinship caregivers should be created and include financial assistance, respite care, education, health services, and family activities in one location to ease the burden on kinship caregivers and improve the well-being of kinship families. Social work implications and areas for future research are discussed.
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Keywords
Kinship Care, Relative Placement, Kinship Caregiver, Kinship Families