[Factors related to activity satisfaction and activity burden in foster parents: A cross-sectional study]

Objectives　This study aimed to identify the relevant factors related to activity satisfaction (AS) and activity burden (AB) in foster parents on the basis of sex.Methods　A survey was conducted among 2,142 foster parents from 32 local foster parent associations. The inclusion criterion was survey respondents who had experience in raising foster children. The demographics, individual factors, and social support/capital factors were measured individually. The residential populations were examined at the municipal level. Based on previous studies, questions related to AS and AB were created using a four-item method. We performed multiple logistic regression analyses. The parents were divided into two groups based on the median total scores of AS and AB, identified as dependent variables.Results　A total of 1,052 parents responded to the survey (response rate, 49.1%), of whom 752 had no data deficiencies and had experience in fostering children; thus, they were included in the analysis, and were divided by sex into male (n=247, 32.8%) and female (n=505, 67.2%) groups. Among the men, multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that satisfaction with the child guidance center (CGC) was a significant factor related to AS and AB. Among the women, <10 years of experience as a foster parent, experience in caring for an infant, and participation in foster parent meetings were significant factors related to AS. Having a biological child, experience of fostering children with disabilities, satisfaction with the CGC, and participation in community activities were significant factors related to AB.Conclusion　Although factors related to AS and AB differed between men and women, satisfaction with the CGC was an important factor for both groups. This suggests that the CGC plays a crucial role in supporting foster parents. We believe that it is essential for the CGC to provide specialized support to foster parents and maintain close relationships with them.