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Despite numerous anecdotal reports, very few Australian data are available concerning the characteristics of foster carers and the problems associated with foster caring. In this study by Paul Delfabbro, John Taplin and Yvonne Bentham, 48 South Australian foster carers were interviewed and asked to provide details of their motivations, family structure and concerns. The results showed that intrinsic factors such as being interested in children's well-being and future appear to be more likely reasons for caring than more extrinsic factors such as needing money or companionship. The carers' main concerns related to their frustration with the foster care system, in particular their inability to have a say in the child's future, and the lack of support from agencies and social workers. Many also expressed significant concerns about children's behaviour and the sadness associated with the child leaving. The implications of these findings for the retention of foster carers are discussed.

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