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Abstract

Training of foster parents and child welfare staff is crucial for establishing a trauma-informed child welfare sector. Training enhances the ability of foster parents to provide nurturing care and eliminate the re-traumatization of this marginalized population. However, there are many barriers preventing agencies from becoming trauma-informed. Without changes at federal and state levels, the child welfare sector will continue to lack the resources needed for success with this vulnerable population. Investment in the research and development of these programs is vital, and more funding must be allocated to ensure agencies can provide trauma-informed training to all. Studies have shown that training programs can positively change the overall functioning of youth in foster care. Therefore, there should be a mandate that all child welfare staff and foster parents must complete trauma-informed training and implement trauma-informed practices throughout their programs.

Keywords: child welfare system, social justice, marginalized communities, racism, policy change, trauma-informed training, funding, research, critical race theory

Key Take Away Points

Mandating trauma-informed training is needed to assist in the decrease of re-traumatization of youth in foster care.

Author Biography

Dr. Sonia Haynes, LCSW, is a social worker in NYS who has worked in the child welfare system for over 16 years.

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