Maltreated Foster Children: A Study of the Frequency and Specific and Cumulative Consequences of Child Maltreatment

Background: Foster children experience significantly more maltreatment and neglect than non-foster children do, and therefore are more likely to suffer from long-term consequences. Method: The current investigation was part of the GROW&TREAT research project, funded by the BMBF. In all, 94 foster children were examined regarding the impact of different forms of child maltreatment on their development. As a comparison group, 157 non-foster children were included in the study. Standardized methods were used to assess the child's emotional and behavioral problems, the parent-child relationship, and the child's cognitive skills. Results: The results of the study showed that the developmental outcomes were less favorable in foster than in biological children. Different types of maltreatment had specific effects on the child's cognitive development. Conclusion: The limitations of the study and implications for further investigations are critically discussed.