‘Doing family’ in adversity: Findings from a qualitative study exploring family practices in alternative care settings in Thailand

Abstract

This paper presents findings from a qualitative study that explored children's and families' experiences of alternative care in Thailand. The study used arts‐based methods to engage 160 children living in a range of care settings. This included government and NGO‐run residential care settings (RCS), children's villages, Buddhist temples, migrant learning centres and foster care homes. Interviews were also conducted with 20 parents/guardians who had placed their children in care. Findings show that despite the alternative care system presenting significant challenges, the participants revealed how they strived to preserve their family connections, and how they are ‘doing family’ in adversity.