l difficulties resulting from their traumatic and turbulent histories of abuse and neglect (Ayasse, 1995; Hochstadt, Jaudes, Zimo, & Schachter, 1987). Hochstadt(1987) used a contextual conceptualization to frame the discussion of the emotional and/or behavioral challenges presented by foster children. In his view, many of the behaviors displayed by foster children are reactions to traumatic events rather than manifestations of child psychopathology. He identified the following three categories of challenges facing foster children:
             1. Problems related to pre-placement conditions
             2. Problems related to normal adaptation to foster care placement
             3. Problems resulting from inappropriate management on the part of the foster care system
             This categorization alludes to the complexity of issues involved in foster care placement, and it offers a useful framework for understanding the multiple needs of foster children.
             Foster children may display a wide range of behavioral problems depending upon the type of abuse or neglect experienced prior to foster care placement. Physically abused children are often described as more aggressive, noncompliant, and impulsive than their nonabused peers. (Parker & Herrera, 1996). In addition, low self-esteem and difficulties with peer relations are reported among physically abused children (Parker & Herrera, 1996). One explanation for these
             behaviors is that children who have experienced physical abuse may have become accustomed to receiving harsh or erratic punishment and carry mistaken beliefs regarding "normal" parent-child relationships. As a result, they may have learned to use negative behaviors as a means for initiating contact, getting attention, or asserting power over the adults in their lives. Once learned, these patterns can be carried into their relationships with others.
             Neglected children may demonstrate a different array of behaviors. A common phenomenon among neglected child...