Kinship Care Research Paper

Kinship care is defined as foster care. The term is currently used to define out of home placement. Kinship care is not considered to be a permanent solution; it’s more of a temporary solution. Relative adoptions however function a bit differently. Legislation requires relative care givers to meet the same licensing standards as non- relative caregivers, although the same services are not provided. Generally relative caregivers are not provided with the same financial support that non- relative caregivers are.
Non-relative care givers are not provided with the same stipend as relative care givers. Ultimately the level of support is bent on state funds which happen to vary from state to state. Non- relative caregivers are thus forced to accept TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families). TANF does not provide families with the necessary services such as educational, mental, health, counseling and childcare. Informal adoptions have become more prominent in today’s society. They are continuously expanding in the African American community. Currently there are over 2 million African American children that are being raised by grandparents, aunts, uncles and other extended family members. Although this number has increased greatly the majority of these children still
The article not only provided clarity but it also provided positive outcomes to relative adoptions. It showed the difference in outcome between in relative and non-relative care givers. It was proven through studies that kids that are fostered by relatives vs. non relative care givers are given the opportunity to maintain a relationship with their family members. Kinship not only facilitates cultural, spiritual and social growth it serves as an important component in family preservation and