ABSTRACT

The field of child welfare continues to search for effective ways to mitigate risks foster youth often encounter. Research discoveries about the importance of attachments and relational competence for foster youth support greater well-being. However, little is known about the use of smartphone technology and companion software in foster care as a method in promoting relational competence. This qualitative implementation study sought to explore the perceptions of child welfare providers and other stakeholders regarding how smartphone technology facilitated the ability of foster youth to become more connected with trusted adults. Research results reveal challenges associated with child welfare officials’ purposeful issuance and utilisation of smartphones. Stakeholders and providers viewed these challenges as learning opportunities. Three critical themes uncovered—relationship building, youth empowerment, and normalcy—provide direction for how smartphone technology might be more efficiently tapped relative to future child welfare initiatives.

摘要

儿童福利领域继续寻找有效的方法来减轻寄养青年经常遇到的风险。关于依恋和关系能力对培养青年的重要性的研究发现支持更大的福祉。然而，关于在寄养中使用智能手机技术和配套软件作为促进关系能力的方法知之甚少。这项定性实施研究旨在探讨儿童福利提供者和其他利益相关者对智能手机技术如何促进培养青年与值得信赖的成年人建立更多联系的能力的看法。研究结果揭示了与儿童福利官员有目的地发放和使用智能手机相关的挑战。利益相关者和提供者将这些挑战视为学习机会。