This chapter discusses the implications of research on the welfare of children under permanency planning. Four indicators of the suitability of child welfare services and placements are identified, including the risk that a child will be reabused in a placement, the stability of a permanent placement, the developmental outcomes for a child, and the satisfaction of children and families with the placement. Trends in prevention, reunification, adoption, guardianship, and long-term foster care programs are discussed, and their success is measured by rates of reabuse, stability, effects on child development, and satisfaction. Results of numerous research studies are summarized. Risk for reabuse varies by placement, less likely when a child is adopted and more likely when the child is returned home.
Adoption is the most stable placement and long-term care is the least stable.
Studies have shown that child health and educational and social growth are less favorable for children who are returned home than children who are adopted.