A thematic analysis on perceptions of foster care through the lens of ethnic belongingness in multicultural Mauritius

Abstract

The development of a comprehensive foster care system as an alternative to the institutionalisation of children in out-of-home care remains underdeveloped in Mauritius. With no prior studies on the perceptions of foster care in this multiethnic island state and the relatively low number of registered foster parents, this qualitative study sought to explore the perceptions of the Afro-Mauritians and Indo-Mauritians on the reality of foster care. Also, this study sought to identify factors perceived to prevent or encourage members of particular ethnic groups in fostering a child. Similarly, it aimed to understand demographic factors perceived as significant for effective foster care. Using semi-structured interviews alongside purposive sampling, 10 parents were interviewed from which 5 were of African descent and 5 of Indian descent. From the thematic analysis, national silence on foster care alongside the urgency to make foster care a working reality was advanced. Unconditional acceptance of the foster child and support to foster parents were also reported as vital. While more similarities between the two ethnic groups were uncovered, some unique reasons to start foster care and barriers to do so were also revealed by members of particular ethnic groups. Family structure, age, educational level and socioeconomic status were revealed as important demographic indicators for effective foster care. It was recommended for social workers and policy makers to fully commit towards implementing more family-oriented care provisions. Also significant is the relevance of considering ethnic belongingness as an important and equally relevant demographic marker in the multicultural Mauritian context.