Modelo integrado de acolhimento familiar

: avaliação da formação inicial pelos profissionais e candidatos a família de acolhimento

Abstract

Family Foster Care is a central measure in promoting the well-being of children and young people at risk. Considering recent legislative changes and the growing recognition of Family Foster Care in Portugal, the implementation of empirically validated practice models that ensure its effective delivery has become a pressing need. The Integrated Model of Family Foster Care (MIAF) was developed in response to this need, structuring several key processes of foster care, including the initial training. This study aimed to evaluate the initial training process outlined in the MIAF. Using a multi-informant approach and drawing on the perceptions of professionals and prospective foster carers, the study assessed the fidelity and feasibility of implementing the training process designed to prepare foster families. The sample consisted of 19 professionals and 66 candidates involved in the training process. Results revealed overall very high levels of fidelity and feasibility, confirming the relevance and value of the training process. As opportunities for improvement, the study identified topics related to the relationship with the birth family and the temporal transitions within foster care. Additionally, results indicated that among candidates, being female, having a higher level of education, and having children were associated with higher perceptions of the feasibility of the training. Overall, the findings demonstrate that the MIAF training process has been implemented with high fidelity and feasibility, with important implications for policy and practice in this field.

Date of Award	12 Nov 2025
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Sponsors	Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia
Supervisor	Mariana Negrão (Supervisor)