Strategies for longitudinal research with youth in foster care: A demonstration of methods, barriers, and innovations

Yo Jackson, Joy Gabrielli, Angela M. Tunno, Erin P. Hambrick

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

55 Scopus citations

Abstract

Longitudinal research on youth in foster care is important, but often challenging to accomplish. To assist the field, a thorough description of the development of the SPARK (Studying Pathways to Adjustment and Resilience in Kids) project, a longitudinal research project on the mechanisms of resilience for foster youth and their caregivers, is presented. Authors explain the difficult task for researchers in accessing youth in foster care and suggest strategies for success. Recruitment approaches for foster youth and their families are also provided along with examples of effective techniques. Data collection concerns are discussed, and the authors provide recommendations for researchers to consider when asking youth sensitive questions. Finally, data collection on academic information from teachers and how the SPARK project works with the academic community to gain information on school functioning for youth in the project is described. Suggestions for methodology utilized in future research along with examples of innovative adjustments to typical research procedures are provided as guidance for how research on maltreated youth can be conducted.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1208-1213
Number of pages6
JournalChildren and Youth Services Review
Volume34
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2012

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Education
  • Developmental and Educational Psychology
  • Sociology and Political Science

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Strategies for longitudinal research with youth in foster care: A demonstration of methods, barriers, and innovations'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this