An exploratory study of foster child stress and behavioral health during Hurricane Irma

This study provides an exploration of foster child stress and behavioral health during and after Hurricane Irma. Results from a survey of 50 foster parents indicated that foster child stress was significantly higher when court hearings were cancelled/rescheduled, foster parents perceived delayed progress toward case goals, and foster parents had higher hurricane-related stress. Anxiety and aggression were the most frequently mentioned ways in which foster child stress was manifested during and after the storm. These findings provide an introductory exploration that has implications for future research on foster care during natural disasters.