Vulnerability and Resilience during a Natural Disaster: Exploring the Experiences of Foster Children in Florida

Background and purpose: Children going through natural disasters experience emotional and psychological distress, disruption of education progress, loss and grief, and physical health concerns. The problems can be severe among foster children as they experience more complex problems, including loss of identity and belonging, disruption of therapeutic services, and increased vulnerability to abuse and exploitation. Understanding resilience among foster children during natural disasters is critical to promoting enhanced support, improving preparedness in mitigating trauma, building coping skills, and ensuring long-term well-being. Hence, this study examines vulnerability and resilience among Florda's extended foster care system individuals who have experienced disaster in recent years.

Methods: A qualitative design with a photovoice approach was used to develop an in-depth understanding of participants’ experiences and perspectives on disaster vulnerability and resilience. Data were collected through virtual focus group discussions (photovoice) with individuals in the extended foster care system (n=15) and in-depth interviews with child welfare professionals (n=5). Photovoice participants were selected if they were 1) over 18 years of age, 2) in foster care as a minor, 3) aged out of Florida’s Foster Care System or are in Florida’s Extended Foster Care System, and 4) experienced disaster/hurricane in recent years. Photovoice focus groups and in-depth interviews were video, audio recorded, and transcribed verbatim. We used Nvivo14 to analyze data thematically.

Results: Thematic analysis so far revealed that experiencing hurricanes deepened feelings of loss, fear, and isolation. It also amplified existing trauma from foster care experiences and fueled distrust in systems and people. Structural inequities exacerbated participants’ vulnerabilities. Participants exhibited resilience through post-traumatic growth, adaptability, varied behavioral responses such as becoming numb or heightened reactions, humor and compassion, and exercising gratitude and optimism in the face of adversity. Contributing factors to resilience included connection to community resources, use of social media as a surviving tool, and supportive foster family environment. Challenges to resilience included chronic instability, neglect and abuse, unaddressed trauma, inadequate support and unresponsive systems, complex bureaucracy, intersectional effects of COVID-19, and digital misinformation.

Conclusion and Implications: The findings demonstrated the unique vulnerabilities of foster children and the exacerbation of their existing trauma during natural disasters. Resilience was demonstrated through individual capabilities and traits rather than systemic and coordinated efforts during disasters, demonstrating potential gaps in structural support for foster children. There is a strong need for effective disaster resilience assessment and support among foster children. Suggested strategies include improved material and resource support such as clarity in communication and guidance, emergency shelter, and direct cash support. Strengthening emotional support by establishing support groups such as grief and loss groups and increased peer interaction is highly recommended. Legal support through teen court and advocacy is essential. Establishing multi-agency and community collaboration and providing foundational and sustainable support is paramount in reducing the impacts of trauma and fostering resilience.