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Scientific Articles



  • Separation and Reunification: - Separation and Reunification:
    Attachment Theory and Research to
    Inform Decisions Affecting the
    Placements of Children in Foster Care

    BY DOUGLAS F. GOLDSMITH, DAVID OPPENHEIM, AND JANINE WANLASS
    A B S T R A C T
    Determinations regarding removal of children from home in maltreatment
    situations typically take into consideration the physical safety of the child.
    Less recognized and often underappreciated is the severe risk endured by
    the child as a result of separation from the caregiver, and the long-term
    effects of the separation on the child. This article describes recent developments
    in attachment theory and research and their usefulness for placement
    decisions. We will explain how a child develops a secure attachment
    to a caregiver and review the deleterious consequences associated with
    maltreatment and separation. The case of a child in a foster/adoptive
    placement will be discussed in order to clarify common misinterpretations
    of attachment research and how attachment theory and research can
    inform permanency decisions that are in the best interest of the child.


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