Publication
Title
The African child in kinship care : a systematic review
Author
Abstract
This study investigates the difference in the well-being of children in kinship care when compared to children in other care settings within Africa, examining factors that are associated with their well-being outcomes. A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines. Fourteen databases and websites were searched for empirical studies conducted in Africa between 2000 and 2017. Studies were included if they compared children in kinship care with other care settings. 23 studies were included and retained in the review. The degree of relatedness of carer to the child, socio-economic status of fostering households, gender and age were identified as factors contributing to the well-being of children in kinship care. The degree of relatedness to the caregiver and socio-economic status of the fostering household were the strongest determinants of the well-being of children in kinship care. This review finds that parental care remains the best care setting and should be highly encouraged within African society. However, outside of parental care kinship care is the most sustainable and affordable form of care for children in Africa. The evidence suggests that systems that support the placement of children with close kin members and ensure economic strengthening programs for poor families with children should be supported and put in place by the African governments.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Children and youth services review. - New York
Publication
New York : 2019
ISSN
0190-7409
DOI
10.1016/J.CHILDYOUTH.2018.12.013
Volume/pages
98 (2019) , p. 178-187
ISI
000460851000022
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 14.01.2019
Last edited 04.03.2024
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