Experiences of single-parent foster families

This study aims to explore the experiences of single-parent foster families in Türkiye, focusing on their motivations for becoming foster carers, the systemic challenges they encounter throughout the process, and their perceptions of existing support mechanisms. The research seeks to contribute to the visibility of single-parent foster care—a phenomenon that has gained increasing importance within the child protection system but remains underrepresented in the academic literature.The study employs a qualitative research design and is based on semi-structured, in-depth interviews conducted with 15 single-parent foster families. Participants were coded as K1–K15, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings are structured under three main categories: the decision-making process for becoming a foster family, the process of becoming a foster family, and the process after becoming a foster family.Most participants stated that their decision to become foster parents stemmed from intrinsic motivations such as the desire to have a child, to add meaning to their lives, and to make a positive difference in a child's life. However, in practice, the inadequacy of current legislation, the ambiguity surrounding the rights, responsibilities, and boundaries of involved parties, and the impact of prevailing social attitudes emerged as major systemic challenges. The research also reveals a structural inconsistency between the intended temporary nature of foster care and its permanent implementation in practice.Participants emphasized that being a foster parent added profound meaning to their lives and that actively contributing to a child's development was a transformative experience for them. Despite all challenges, the shared sentiment "I would do it again if I could" emerged as a common expression of determination among all participants.The findings demonstrate that single-parent foster families fill a significant gap in the child protection system, both in terms of quality and responsibility. However, the limited scope of existing legislation and the insufficiency of support mechanisms hinder the full realization of this potential. The results also highlight structural issues that extend beyond single-parent foster families to the broader foster care system. For a system grounded in the best interests of the child, legislation must be revised; the rights and responsibilities of foster and biological families should be clearly defined; empowering programs should be implemented for all parties; and family-based placements must be planned according to the individual needs of each child. Such reforms would contribute to a more holistic, equitable, and sustainable foster care system. Keywords: Foster family, single-parent foster family, social work, child in need of protection.