TY - JOUR

T1 - Caring for Traumatised Children: A Systematic Review Exploring Experiences of Secondary Trauma and Compassion Fatigue Among Adoptive and Foster Parents

AU - O'Marah, Rhiannon

AU - Hodge, Suzanne

AU - Machin, Laura

PY - 2025/9/6

Y1 - 2025/9/6

N2 - Emerging research shows adoptive and foster parents experience secondary trauma and compassion fatigue from direct or indirect exposure to their child's trauma and the emotional toll of caregiving. This review synthesizes qualitative literature on these experiences. Eleven studies were analyzed using a meta-ethnographic approach, revealing four themes: 1) parenting while navigating the complexities of trauma, 2) underestimating the challenges parents face, 3) challenges with the interplay of attachment, relationships and parental identity, 4) balancing compassion, sacrifice and heartbreak. Findings emphasize the need for better understanding and targeted support to improve outcomes for both parents and children.

AB - Emerging research shows adoptive and foster parents experience secondary trauma and compassion fatigue from direct or indirect exposure to their child's trauma and the emotional toll of caregiving. This review synthesizes qualitative literature on these experiences. Eleven studies were analyzed using a meta-ethnographic approach, revealing four themes: 1) parenting while navigating the complexities of trauma, 2) underestimating the challenges parents face, 3) challenges with the interplay of attachment, relationships and parental identity, 4) balancing compassion, sacrifice and heartbreak. Findings emphasize the need for better understanding and targeted support to improve outcomes for both parents and children.

M3 - Journal article

JO - Adoption Quarterly

JF - Adoption Quarterly

SN - 1092-6755

ER -