Foster Care Training

Evolutionary Psychology (EP) offers an evidence-based approach to understanding universal human nature. Behavioral Genetics (BG) explains how the five-factor model of personality (Big 5) has a genetic component and accounts for many individual differences between people. Having a deeper understanding of these theories allows stakeholders to better meet the needs for growth in the areas of social/emotional/intellectual development and to be more effective in promoting wellbeing for system involved youth. This training will provide tools to improve identification of strengths and needs of system involved youth and families. The training will provide an introductory understanding of BG research that demonstrates a heritable component to most elements of human psychology including psychopathology, social relationships and overall life outcomes. EP offers insights into how various models can be integrated into an eclectic approach to supporting system involved youth that is grounded in evolutionary principles.