Abstract
BACKGROUND: Young people in out-of-home care often have trauma histories that negatively impact their development and well-being. As a result, resource parents often face challenges meeting the needs of these youth, which can be addressed by ensuring access to effective trauma-informed training. OBJECTIVE: This qualitative study examined the impacts and helpfulness of a trauma-informed program (Resource Parent Curriculum (RPC)) designed for resource parents who care for a young person involved with child welfare. METHODS: Twenty resource parents from two child welfare agencies in Ontario, Canada participated in focus groups and interviews after completing the RPC program. RESULTS: Results of a thematic analysis indicated that, through use of relevant materials from the program, resource parents reported a better understanding of trauma reactions in their resource child. This improved understanding influenced their parenting approach when addressing their child's behaviours through consideration of their underlying needs. CONCLUSIONS: The findings can be used to support trauma-informed programming for resource parents within child welfare.