This paper is dedicated to the late Professor Matthew Colton and his surviving family. Matthew was an inspirational colleague. His research into the needs of children in care has, without doubt, made a positive difference in the lives of many.
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Original Article
The mental health, emotional literacy, cognitive ability, literacy attainment and ‘resilience’ of ‘looked after children’: A multidimensional, multiple-rater population based study
Article first published online: 19 OCT 2012
DOI: 10.1111/bjc.12008
© 2012 The British Psychological Society
Additional Information
How to Cite
Rees, P. (2013), The mental health, emotional literacy, cognitive ability, literacy attainment and ‘resilience’ of ‘looked after children’: A multidimensional, multiple-rater population based study. British Journal of Clinical Psychology, 52: 183–198. doi: 10.1111/bjc.12008
Publication History
- Issue published online: 14 MAY 2013
- Article first published online: 19 OCT 2012
- Manuscript Accepted: 10 SEP 2012
- Manuscript Received: 24 NOV 2010
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Objectives
Existing research studies suggest that children who are looked after by the State experience high levels of mental health difficulties and underachieve in many other domains. Few studies, however, aim to reflect the heterogeneity of these children and those who are performing well may be under-represented in the findings. This study aims to provide a more representative picture, offering novel data on resilience.
Design
A multidimensional, multiple-rater population-based study of looked after children.
Method
The entire population of looked after children aged 7–15 years (n = 193) in one local authority was assessed in core domains; mental health, emotional literacy, cognitive ability and literacy attainment. Measures included the Strength and Difficulties questionnaire, Emotional Literacy Assessment and Intervention Inventory, and the British Ability Scales. The children's data were compared with general population norms and existing research studies. The incidence of resilience, defined by the fulfilment of positive exception criteria, was recorded. Children fulfilling positive exception criteria were then compared to the remaining children on key factors.
Results
The looked after children performed less well in all domains compared with general population norms. Sixteen per cent of children met the positive exception criteria. Positive performance on individual measures varied from 34% to 76%. A statistically significant association was found between positive exception classification and two factors; parental contact and mainstream schooling.
Conclusions
In general terms, this study supports the findings of previous research studies. However, evidence of positive exceptions across and within all domains cautions against overgeneralization of findings. The findings also implicate parental contact and mainstream education in the promotion of resilience.