Permanency Outcomes of Children in Foster Care: A Multivariate Analysis

Permanency in foster care is crucial for children’s well-being, fostering stable connections, and minimizing trauma. Understanding the factors influencing permanency outcomes remains limited. Utilizing data from Florida’s Department of Children and Families, this study employed a multivariate approach to explain predictors of permanency. The sample includes 35,880 children who entered foster care in Florida between October 1, 2017, and September 30, 2021. Findings reveal older youth entering care are less likely to be adopted and more inclined toward guardianship. Children removed due to maltreatment face lower adoption or guardianship rates, rather than reunification. Placement in nonrelative foster families or a group home increases the chances of adoption or guardianship. Practice recommendations include tailored support for older youth and enhanced reunification services.