Document Type

Article

Abstract

Background: Children in the foster care system have increased diagnoses, mental health concerns, and developmental delays.
Purpose: The pilot used the ASQ-SE to determine if the protocol was feasible and if the screener identified social-emotional difficulties in a primary care clinic that serves children in foster care. 
Method: A pilot was created, and the ASQ-SE was administered to 33 patients during well-child visits (ages 2 months-70 months) over six weeks.
Results: Implementing a social-emotional screener was feasible in the foster care primary care clinic. The infants and toddlers screened (N=33) were grouped by referral status: 57.6 % (19) low risk; 9.1 % (3) monitor and evaluate with next visit; and 33.3% (11) refer to additional emotional support/developmental resources. The monitor and refer groups combined were 42.4% (14). Exposure to various types of abuse or neglect was found in 48.5% (16) of the infants and toddlers screened. There was a statistically significant difference between the referral groups (low-risk group versus monitor/refer groups) for the total score, U = 8.0, p < 0.001, with the monitor/refer group having a significantly higher total score.
Conclusion: The pilot adds to the literature on the need for early screening and interventions for children in the foster care system. Screening for social-emotional & mental health concerns in infant and young children is a critical component of the healthy child exam, and providers need to vigilantly observe and provide appropriate referrals at the first sign of concern.


Key Words: Child, Infant, Mental Health, Mass Screening, Foster Home Care, Emotions

Author ORCID Identifier

0000-0001-6560-6298

Publication Date

5-4-2026

Download

Share

COinS