Emotional journeys of adults raised in group foster care in India

Foster care offers temporary care for children whose parents are unable to meet their caregiving responsibilities, offering several advantages over institutional settings such as individualised attention, stability, and trauma-informed care. Despite its potential, foster care remains an under-researched domain within the Indian child welfare system. Addressing this gap, the present study explores the lived experiences of a group of adults aged between 25 and 30 consisting of nine males and eight females who were raised in foster care settings in India. Utilising a phenomenological methodology, the research conducted in-depth, face-to-face interviews with 17 participants. Two global themes emerged: the effect of being a child of foster care and the care and protection provided to children. Participants generally reported positive experiences, attributing emotional and personal growth to their caregivers, though many also recalled emotional challenges, including isolation, discrimination, and long-term psychological distress such as self-harm in unsupportive environments. The study also looked at sponsorship programmes, revealing mixed experiences. While some found sponsors supportive and involved, others felt neglected due to irregular contact. The findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of foster care in the Indian context, highlighting both emotional journeys and systemic challenges. Future implications and policy recommendations are discussed to support more robust and inclusive foster care systems.