This article provides a review of the literature in attachment theory, outcomes of being in foster care, impacts of trauma, and long-term attachment outcomes of foster care alumni. Thus far, minimal research has been conducted on the topic of attachment outcomes of foster care alumni in general as related to the field of marriage and family therapy. Attachment outcomes of foster care alumni is an important area to understand for marriage and family therapists because of the connection between attachment and relational functioning. The purpose of this article is to help gain an initial understanding of the experiences of foster care alumni and how those experiences may impact their development of attachment styles. Exploring this topic assists clinicians in providing services to children currently in foster care, foster care alumni, and their families.

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This case study aims to analyze the effects of alcohol and substance use on a couple system. An African American, heterosexual couple was selected for analysis due to dual alcohol and substance use negatively impacting their relationship in addition to generalized anxiety and major depressive disorder. The reliance of alcohol and substance use to cope with relational stressors and mental health systems was detrimental to the relationship. The clients initially presented with trust issues stemming from infidelity; throughout the course of treatment, it became apparent the alcohol and substance use was hindering the couple's ability to repair trust and meet their other clinical goals. The couple struggled to find alternative means of coping outside of alcohol and substance use, exacerbating their toxic patterns of interaction. This study displays how cognitive behavioral therapy interventions can be implemented within alcohol and substance abuse context to create change in a couple system.