Attachment-Based Interventions and Outcomes in Foster and Adoptive Families: A Systematic Review

Attachment-based interventions represent a key strategy for improving the well-being of children in foster and adoptive care. These interventions are designed to strengthen parent-child relationships, as demonstrated by measurable outcomes such as increased attachment security, improved psychosocial adjustment, and enhanced parenting effectiveness. This systematic review synthesizes research on the effectiveness of widely implemented programs, including Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-up (ABC), Video-Feedback Intervention to Promote Positive Parenting (VIPP), and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). The evidence suggests that these interventions consistently enhance caregiver sensitivity, reduce behavioral difficulties in children, and promote caregiver mental health. However, the long-term effects of these interventions, particularly regarding placement stability and sustained child well-being, remain unclear. This highlights the need for additional longitudinal research to clarify enduring outcomes and address current gaps. Based on these findings, future work should prioritize evaluating long-term effects and tailoring interventions to individual child and caregiver circumstances to maximize effectiveness and sustainability.