Attachment L11 Flashcards
What is institutionalisation (A01)?
When babies + children are placed in an institution - (which is living arrangements outside family home such as a hospital, mental home or orphanage) where are unable to be looked after by parents or caregivers normally
What are two negative effects of institutionalisation (A01)?
- rules and norms of institution could impair functioning
- Leads to loss of personal identity.
What was Rutter and Songua-Barke’s procedure (A01)?
They studied 165 Romanian orphans who entered UK:
54 adopted before 6 months
57 adopted between 6 months and 2 years
54 adopted between 2-4 years
Adoptees were tested at regular intervals (ages 4,6,11 and 15) to asses physical, cognitive and social development.
They were compared to a control group of 52 British children adopted in the UK before 6 months.
What did they find (A01)?
At time of adoption, Romanians lacked behind the UK in all physical, social, emotional. By age of 4 some had recovered, especially those adopted before age of 4.
Those who spent longer in institutions were more likely to suffer socially, emotionally and cognitively. Also found children adopted between ages 2-4 were more likely to suffer mental health issues.
What does this study show (A01)?
Shows institutional care does not mean that children will not recover. But shows that bad conditions can lead to long term consequences, however can be minimised with adoption as early as possible.
What is a strength of Rutter and Songua-Barke’s procedure (A03)?
Enhanced understanding - We know more about negative consequences of institutionalisation. Led to establishment of key workers who provide critical care.
What is a strength of Rutter and Songua-Barke’s procedure (A03 - Adoption)?
Changes in adoption - Mothers encouraged to nurse children for as long as possible before adoption. Now most babies are adopted before 6 months (avoids negative effects)
What is a weakness of Rutter and Songua-Barke’s procedure (A03)?
Problem with generalising results as Romanian conditions were exceptionally poor. Not applicable to all/most situations
