Some children who have suffered maltreatment may file a false report. Characteristics of children in out-of-home care that increase self-reports include:

• Some children may want to return home and see filing a report of maltreatment in the foster home as a possible avenue for reunification. (Carbino, 1991)
• Some children may be angry at disciplinary measures and, in retaliation, report maltreatment.
• Some children may misinterpret the caregiver’s actions and anticipate a punishment for their behavior based on prior experience.
• Some children, due to past abuse, may feel threatened by or misinterpret well-intended or benign foster parent behavior. For example, a child who has been sexually abused may be very uncomfortable with normal expressions of affection or intimacy within the foster family and may misinterpret these behaviors as threatening (CWLA, 1999).

Note: Many of the suggestions for creating a safe environment also minimize the risk of false allegations.

The purpose of this information is not to unnecessarily scare prospective foster and adoptive parents but to present a realistic picture regarding the risks and the supports. You will have an opportunity to ask a panel of foster and adoptive parents for strategies to reduce the risk of false allegations during Session 7.

Now refer to the Allegation Support Team page in your Resource Guide.