Det är ju mitt liv : En literaturstudie om barns delaktighet i beslutsprocesser inför familjehemsplaceringar.

Sammanfattning

This study examines how children’s participation in investigation processes prior to foster care placements is described in previous research, and identifies factors that enable or limit such participation. The study is based on a literature review of 15 national and international peer-reviewed articles and is analyzed using Pedersen and Bengtsson’s CPC model together with a social constructionist perspective inspired by Hacking.The findings show that children often experience limited participation in decisionmaking processes concerning foster care placements. Many children describe not being listened to, informed, or involved in decisions affecting their lives. Participation frequently appears symbolic rather than genuine, as children’s views are not always given real influence. At the same time, the results show that participation is strengthened through trustful relationships, respectful communication, continuity, and support from social workers. Organizational barriers such as high workloads, lack of time, staff turnover, and shortages of foster homes were also found to limit children’s opportunities for participation. In addition, the study identifies a tension between children’s right to participation and the protection perspective within child welfare services.The study concludes that children’s participation in foster care investigations remains more of an ambition than a fully realized practice. To strengthen children’s actual influence, there is a need for improved communication, stronger relational work, and better organizational conditions within child welfare services.