Key messages
• Adolescents with a diagnosed chronic health condition
report more internalizing and externalizing behaviours in
the foster care setting. Caregivers also report more overall
behavioural problems for adolescents with a recurrent
health condition.
• A diagnosed recurrent health problem is also associated
with higher self-reported delinquency for adolescents in
long-term foster care. Reported levels of depression
mediate the connection between the physical health of
adolescents and delinquency ratings.
• Professionals working within the foster care system should
identify specialized treatments that can effectively treat
adolescents with a combination of behavioural and health
concerns.
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