A recent report from the National Center for Enhanced Post-Adoption Support, Post-Permanency Services: A Worthwhile Investment, emphasizes how critical postpermanency services are in promoting child well-being and long-term permanency for adoptive and guardianship families. The publication highlights key research findings on the challenges these families face and how tailored services can provide stability, improve child outcomes, and enhance family functioning.
Adoptive and guardianship families often encounter unique challenges that differ from those of other families. Research shows that children who are adopted, especially those with experience in foster care or institutional settings, frequently have histories of trauma, adversity, and inconsistent caregiving. As a result, families may need ongoing support to navigate emotional and behavioral challenges. The report highlights that nearly 40 percent of adopted children have special health-care needs, and adoptive and guardianship families are three times more likely to require clinical support compared to families formed through birth.
Postpermanency services, including mental health care, educational support, and caregiver support groups, can improve family well-being. These services help reduce behavior challenges, prevent placement disruptions, and enhance family cohesion. Families with access to such support report fewer disruptions, higher levels of family functioning, and more positive outcomes for children.