Child Protection Employees observations of Foster Children s experiences of loss following Bushfires

Abstract

Due to the common occurrence of bushfires in Australia, research has previously been conducted on this natural disaster and its long term consequences on individuals, families and communities. Children are particularly vulnerable and can experi ence side effects such as depression, anxiety and self destructive behaviours. Despite there being a large existing body of research on the consequences of this natural disaster, research has not been conducted on foster children and their experiences of l oss following bushfires. Foster children are not exempt from the adverse side effects of bushfires and may be at an added risk for psychological distress due to their previous experiences of trauma. This growing and vulnerable population should be represented in the literature. The present study aimed to explore the views of Child Protection employees on foster children s experiences of loss following bushfires. An interview guide was developed and the observations of seven Child Protection employees were obtained. Participants were questioned about foster children s behaviour and mental health during the evacuation and re covery periods of the 2019 Adelaide Hills and Kangaroo Island Bushfires. A thematic analysis was used to generate six themes from the data, which were organisation concern for loved ones and irreplaceable possessions sense of adventure re living the bushfire event anxiety and resilience'. The results suggest that whilst foster children did exhibit concern and some symptom s of anxiety, overall they demonstrated resilience and benefited from their carers organisation. The findings may have implications on the procedures undertaken by Child Protection agencies following bushfires.