Fictive Kin

Refers to individuals that are unrelated by either birth or marriage, who have an emotionally significant relationship with another individual that takes on the characteristics of a family relationship.

Foster Care

Placing a child in the temporary care of a family other than its own as the result of problems or challenges that are taking place within the birth family.

Foster Home

A home which is licensed by the state or an agency to take in children and youth who have been placed in foster care.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

Refers to certain birth defects and impairments that may be suffered by a child as the result of heavy alcohol consumption by its mother during pregnancy. Symptoms may include significant learning and behavioral disorders (including ADHD), poor social judgment, and impulsive behaviors.

Family Preservation

A program in most states that is designed to keep families together by providing support and intervention services to children and families in their home. The family is observed, evaluated and treated while they are still together, with a goal of avoiding foster care placement.