Journal of Student Research 2013

64

Journal of Student Research

correlation between the statements The quality of home life provided by the current caregiver affects the transitions between placements for foster children, Emotional caregiver availability helps children to achieve positive transitions, and Physical caregiver availability helps children to achieve positive transitions. These findings are supported by theory and literature. Attachment theory assumes that children are likely to have a better sense of attachment if an adult providing loving, consistent, and persistent care is present (Davila & Levy, 2006). Panciano (2010) found maternal sensitivity to be a very strong predictor of the security of attachment. The frequency distribution also demonstrated support for this study’s hypothesis. The majority of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the quality of home life, emotional caregiver availability, and physical caregiver availability are all important aspects in providing positive transitions for foster children. These findings are supported by Schofield and Beek (2009) who stated that the Secure Base Model, focusing on the importance of availability, acceptance, co-operation, and family membership, is beneficial to follow when caring for foster children. The results, literature, and theory were all in concurrence regarding the survey statements The more sensitive caregivers are, the better able they are to help foster children transition; Foster children who feel a sense of acceptance are more likely to have a positive transition, and Foster children who are taught problem solving skills by caregivers have more positive transitions. The majority of our respondents agreed or strongly agreed with these statements. In regards to the literature, Schofield and Beek (2009) agreed that feeling a sense of acceptance and sensitivity is necessary to facilitate positive transitions. Attachment theory supports this with the idea that a sensitive caregiver who creates an accepting and educational environment helps the child to feel a deeper sense of attachment (Davila & Levy, 2006). The results regarding the number of foster children present in a particular placement did not fit with theory or literature. The vast majority of the respondents neither agreed nor disagreed with this survey question, pointing towards a lack of understanding on this particular issue. Attachment theory assumes that children have