In one of my classes, a girl did a speech about the foster care system from her experience. It was one of the most awful things I'd ever heard.
She talked about the diagnosing of mental illness and administration of psych meds to very young children. Once they are on all these meds the day they are 18 they completely cut off from everything.
That was just one of the MANY things that really enraged and upset me. These children are already at risk for potential furthered abuse by adoptive/foster parents and then they just get abused by the system That is supposed to protect them. Ughhh.
I am sure there are great foster parents out there. Actually, I do know of some. I myself think one day when I'm way older and out of this business, I may foster a child if I don't have anymore of my own.
I agree with nbs... sorry your handle is long. I abbreviated. Anyway, I agree that prevention and education is a great idea. Imo, they should teach psychology, family dynamics, and coping skills in high school or even earlier. There is so much dysfunction that maybe if kids were taught about these things in school, when they grew up they might be healthier adults with less mental illness, behavioral issues and substance issues.
Just a thought.