The Struggles of Foster Care for Youth with Violent Behavior

It is important to note that society and the child welfare system are equipped to handle even the most challenging cases, including those where children have exhibited violent behavior. The situation you described—where a 12-year-old girl is placed in a group home after her parents willingly surrender her to the child protection services (CPS) due to violent behavior—yields deeply worrying insights into the challenges and considerations within the foster care system.

Understanding the System

The foster care system is designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children who have been abused, negated, or abandoned. It is a last resort for children deemed to have no suitable family environment. For those deemed to be at high risk due to violent behavior, placement in a group home or juvenile detention center is often the next step. Your case highlights the necessity for more restrictive settings to ensure the safety of both the violent child and the community at large.

No Place for Violence

No foster home would willingly accept a child with a history of violent behavior. This is because such behavior puts both the foster child and the foster family at significant risk. The system aims to protect all involved, particularly children and vulnerable adults. Group homes and juvenile detention centers are specialized settings equipped to manage such behaviors and provide the necessary security and support.

Steps to Seeking Better Options

Given the circumstances, it is crucial to recognize that the group home is not a punishment but an opportunity. You have the chance to prove that you are capable of growth and change. Here are some steps you can take to improve your situation:

Adopt Breathing Techniques: When you feel anger building, take a few deep breaths. Visualizing ice melting on your head can help you manage your emotions and reduce the intensity of your violent reactions. Use CBD Oil: CBD oil can be a helpful supplement for managing aggressive emotions. Always follow the guidance of medical professionals regarding dosage and usage. Medication: If prescribed, take your medication as directed. This can help create a stable brain chemistry, reducing the likelihood of impulsive behavior. Obedience: Follow the rules and instructions given to you. Compliance with the guidelines of your group home can pave the way for eventual placement in a more suitable foster home. Higher Education: Consider enrolling in remedial education classes at your group home. These can help you catch up and prepare for high school and future academic pursuits. Job Corps: At 16, you could consider enrolling in the Job Corps program. This offers training and education, helping you develop valuable skills for adulthood. Secure Housing: Once you are ready, aim to acquire your own apartment. This can provide you with the independence and support needed to navigate life successfully.

Law and Policy in Foster Care

The laws and policies surrounding foster care vary by jurisdiction. However, generally, once CPS intervenes, children are placed in appropriate settings based on their needs. Placement in a group home or juvenile detention center is often the result of carefully considered assessments. CPS ensures that children are placed in the least restrictive environment that can keep them safe and promote their well-being.

It is worth noting that CPS does not directly surrender children to foster families. Instead, they work with the court system to make appropriate placements. In your case, the actions taken by CPS were aimed at ensuring your safety and the safety of others in your community.

A Path to a Better Future

Your situation may seem daunting, but it presents a significant opportunity for change. By demonstrating accountability and a commitment to positive behavior, you can overcome the challenges you face. Seek support from your group home staff, and make a conscious effort to turn your life around. The goal is not only to survive but to thrive and become a positive influence in society.

Remember, every step you take is a chance to show that you are working towards a better future. With the right support and a willingness to change, you can move from a group home to a foster home and eventually become self-sufficient and independent.

Take the time to focus on your own growth and development. Utilize the resources available to you, and don’t view your placement in a group home as a destination but as a beginning. It is a chance to build a new future for yourself.