This monograph shows the contribution of foster families to the system of social care for a child permanently or temporarily deprived of the biological family environment.

Adopting a theoretical and empirical approach that draws on survey research conducted with 212 foster families, it shows their involvement in the system, the functioning of foster families in terms of carrying out care and education tasks entrusted to them, as well as their expectations and the difficulties they face in their parenting work. Identifying the motives of the surveyed parents that prompted them to start a foster family, the research also shows how foster families meet the basic needs of children in their care.

Offering advice on the development of practical requirements and conclusions for the care and education work of foster families as well as centres and institutions that support them, this book will be of interest to all scholars and students of child welfare, child psychology and child and family social work.