A longitudinal study examining the effect of carer-child relationship quality on child’s emotional and behavioural difficulties while in foster care

Background Early relationships between a caregiver and their child set the foundations for many aspects of the child’s development [1]. Exposure to abuse or neglect can negatively impact the security and stability within these early relationships [2]. The aim of this project was to characterise the association between carer-child relationship quality and child’s mental health over time. Methods Data for 220 children, collected between 2011–2022 as part of the Best Services Trial (BeST ^? ) were used. Relationship quality was assessed using Parent-Infant Relationship Global Assessment Scale (PIR-GAS), and child emotional and behavioural difficulties was assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and The Infant Toddler Social Emotional Assessment (ITSEA). Data was examined from two time points, a few weeks after entering care and after 2.5 years. Results The quality of the carer-child relationship did not predict emotional and behavioural outcomes for the child at a later time point. Nonetheless, we found that overall children had significantly better relationships with their carers at the 2.5 year follow up than at baseline. Conclusions This highlights a need for specific tailored interventions for care experienced children, to support their emotional and behavioural needs and improve long term outcomes.