Foster parents' needs, perceptions and satisfaction with foster parent training: A systematic literature review

This current systematic literature review aims to examine what is known about foster parents' needs, satisfaction and perceptions of foster parent training. A systematized search in relevant databases resulted in 13 publications, with mostly quantitative studies, originating from four countries. Research on foster parent training is scarce, and the satisfaction, needs and perceptions of foster parents were included as secondary outcomes in most of the reviewed studies. A synthesis of the results from the reviewed quantitative studies indicate high levels of user satisfaction, whereas qualitative findings indicate needs for more advanced training on parenting children with special needs, and more real life and flexible practice/training. In conclusion, more research is needed to increase the knowledge on prospective and current foster parents' perceptions of, and satisfaction with foster parent training, and their needs for training.