Kinship Research

This report from Colorado State University's Social Work Research Center, prepared for Casey Family Programs, combines a scoping review of 61 research studies with interviews of 40 kinship care stakeholders (caregivers, alumni, program leaders, and policymakers) to assess the value, risks, and support needs of kinship care compared to non-relative foster care. Findings show kinship care is generally associated with greater placement stability, lower maltreatment rates, and better child well-being, but kinship caregivers often receive significantly less financial support, training, and oversight than foster parents, especially in informal or "hidden" arrangements. The report calls for clearer policy definitions, expanded kinship navigator programs, and more research to fill existing gaps.

Annotated bibliography developed by Chapin Hall which highlights 50 social science research on on kinship caregivers and children in kinship care. This resource provides a list of source citations, the kinship population studied (formal, informal, or diversion/voluntary), key findings, notable result(s), and its limitations. This bibliography is drawn almost entirely from peer-reviewed academic research and on articles published between 2016 and 2026 (September 2026). 

Generations United fact sheet summarizing research showing that children thrive in grandfamilies, especially when well-supported by services. Most recently updated with new data and research in September 2026.

Think of Us report that reviews and analyzes existing research about kinship care. This review aims to summarize what we know, identify remaining research gaps, and highlight areas where the social services sector, policymakers, and researchers can focus their efforts to best support children, kinship caregivers, and their families.

This toolkit was developed to support child and parent attorneys' advocacy for kinship placements for their clients/client’s children through trial and appellate advocacy, as well as outside of the court setting. This toolkit includes federal and state law and policy resources, and a comprehensive overview of social science articles and research studies on the benefits of kinship care.