Citation

Imrisek SD, Castaño K, Bernard K. J. Clin. Psychol. (Hoboken) 2018; 74(8): 1308-1318.

Affiliation

Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1002/jclp.22642

PMID

29768675

Abstract

Toddlers in foster care have typically experienced histories of maltreatment and disruptions in relationships with primary caregivers. As a result, they are at increased risk for developing disorganized attachment and showing emotional, behavioral, and physiological dysregulation. Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-up for Toddlers in Foster Care (ABC-T) was developed to address the needs of these vulnerable children by supporting foster parents in responding with nurturance to children's distress, following children's lead, and helping children calm when they are becoming overwhelmed or dysregulated. We describe the theoretical underpinnings, evidence base, and clinical approach of ABC-T. Using a case example of Luna and her foster mother Ms. Rosio, we present the typical course of ABC-T, demonstrating core aspects of the model including ongoing observation of parent-child interactions and "in the moment" commenting. Additionally, we consider several challenges to delivering attachment-based interventions in the context of foster care.

© 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Language: en

Keywords

attachment; foster care; self-regulation; toddlers