RCBB Research Talk - Dr Kim Setkowski (University of Groningen, 113 Suicide Prevention)

The Hidden Struggles of Foster Care: From Lived Experiences to the Evaluation of a Suicide Prevention Training Programme for Foster Carers

In this RCBB Research Talk, Dr Kim Setkowski (University of Groningenm, 113 Suicide Prevention) will present her current research under the title "The Hidden Struggles of Foster Care: From Lived Experiences to the Evaluation of a Suicide Prevention Training Programme for Foster Carers".

Abstract

Kim will be presenting findings from 1) a qualitative study on foster children and foster parents’ experiences of suicide prevention intervention approaches, and 2) the development and evaluation of suicide prevention training for foster carers. Full abstracts are available below.

Study 1:

The first study employed a multi-informant approach and aimed to gain a comprehensive understanding of foster children and foster parents’ perspectives and experiences on suicide prevention intervention approaches. Interview data came from 17 foster parents (aged 29–72; M=52.4) and 13 (former) foster children (aged 16–31; M=22.8). All foster children reported a history of traumatic experiences, most commonly physical, sexual, or psychological abuse. Data were analyzed using the constant comparative method upon a deductive and inductive coding approach. Both foster children and foster parents identified low self-esteem, psychiatric diagnosis, poor relationships, and abuse as key risk factors. Interpersonal conflicts, rejection as well as being exposed to, for example, locations, explicit terminology, and actual self-harm behaviors emerged as key triggers. Foster care placement instability influenced suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Protective suicide prevention approaches and strategies included validation, employing coping strategies, and appropriate therapy and medication. Both groups listed invalidation, loss of perspective, loss of control, and negative experiences with mental healthcare, foster care, and schools as harmful suicide prevention strategies.

Study 2:

The second study employed the development of a 16-hour suicide prevention training (‘Strength in Connection’) for foster carers tailored to the needs of children at risk of suicide in foster care. A total of 59 foster parents and 50 foster children were included. The training program was delivered by three trainers with >5 years of experience in suicide prevention. The training program consists of five pillars. Study outcomes included suicidal ideation (SIDAS), suicide attempts and self-harming behavior (C-SSRS), foster carers’ knowledge, attitude and adherence towards the training program. Qualitative interviews (evaluation) were held with 8 foster parents and 8 foster children and analyzed using the Constant Comparative Method. An outline of the training program (and its pillars) will be presented, and relevant preliminary  results will be discussed. Results from the qualitative interviews showed that foster parents were very satisfied with the training program. Also, foster children felt more seen and heard by their foster parent(s) after the training.

Introduction by Dr Emma Ashworth.

If you have any queries, please contact Emma Ashworth or Michael Richter.