When the system fails: a qualitative interview study of foster parents’ perceptions of placement breakdown in Sweden

Placement breakdowns in foster care are a recurrent phenomenon with serious negative consequences for children’s health and well-being. Despite policy initiatives to strengthen stability, the problem persists. To explore foster parents’ perceptions of placement breakdowns in foster care. Semi-structured interviews (60–100 min) were conducted in spring 2025 with ten foster parents from different Swedish municipalities, all with direct experience of breakdowns. Data were analysed inductively using qualitative content analysis. The analysis generated an overarching theme: the need to address systemic shortcomings to prevent breakdowns and mitigate their emotional consequences. Five categories supported this theme. First, foster parents reported a lack of recognition of their role, including limited legal rights, insufficient trust in their competence, and unequal or insecure remuneration. Second, they described inadequate support, both in quality and accessibility, often linked to limited resources within social services, while consultant agencies were considered more responsive. Third, the absence of a child perspective in relocation decisions was emphasised; children’s voices and life circumstances were rarely considered, preparation for moves was insufficient, and post-placement contact was usually severed. Fourth, respondents highlighted a lack of legal safeguards, with poor follow-up, unclear grounds for relocation, and a power imbalance between foster parents and social services. Finally, breakdowns were experienced as emotionally damaging, leading to foster parents’ emotional withdrawal and children’s attachment difficulties. The findings reveal systemic deficiencies that heighten the risk of breakdowns and threaten stability in foster care. Structural reforms are needed to strengthen recognition, provide adequate support, safeguard rights, and embed the child’s perspective.