Award Date
5-1-2025
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Criminal Justice
First Committee Member
Margaret Alexis Kennedy
Second Committee Member
Emily Troshynski
Third Committee Member
William Sousa
Fourth Committee Member
Nicholas Barr
Number of Pages
165
Abstract
This study examines factors contributing to failed permanency outcomes in the foster care system, focusing on adoptions, guardianships, and reunifications. Using strain theory as a framework, this research examines the systemic pressures and institutional barriers within dependency courts, which mirror punitive aspects of the criminal justice system. Expanding strain theory to include a meso-level analysis, the study explores how organizational practices, resource distribution, and inter-agency collaboration influence permanency outcomes. A qualitative approach utilizing semi-structured interviews with judges, attorneys, social workers, district attorneys, and healthcare professionals provides an in-depth understanding of stakeholder perspectives. This research offers actionable recommendations to address systemic barriers, improve service delivery, and enhance permanency outcomes, contributing to a more equitable and effective child welfare system.
Keywords
Children; Foster Care; Permanency; Qualitative; Semi-structured Interviews; Strain Theory
Disciplines
Criminology | Criminology and Criminal Justice
File Format
File Size
1470 KB
Degree Grantor
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Language
English
Repository Citation
Marie, Teresa, "Foster Children’s Repeated Disruptions: A Qualitative Analysis of Stakeholder Insights on Failed Permanency in Foster Care." (2025). UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones. 5362.
https://oasis.library.unlv.edu/thesesdissertations/5362
Rights
IN COPYRIGHT. For more information about this rights statement, please visit http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/