[beth]

I think that people who dedicate themselves to fostering a child are contributing in a wonderful way to the next generation, by helping out kids who are starting life under a cloud. I have often thought of doing it myself in the future. However, I recently read a disturbing article about an increasing trend for foster parents, particularly males, to have allegations made about them in regards to sexual abuse. Obviously some people do foster children with this aim in mind, that is, to abuse them, but this article was talking about genuine individuals who now carry the stigma of being a child abuser. Apparently what happens is that the fostered child objects to the house rules being imposed, or some other form of implied discipline, gets sick of the constant reinforcement of these rules, disputes ensue, and then tells the case worker that they are being sexually abused. Has anyone else heard of this, as this article seemed to imply that it was not uncommon. It would certainly turn me off having a foster child, if there was some chance that I'd come out as a sexual predator. Any thoughts?