ABSTRACT
This chapter illustrates the enormity of the emotional tasks as they can be seen from the perspective of the child in therapy. The transition involves social workers in actions and decisions that require the wisdom of Solomon. Careful thought about how this delicate transition can be nurtured, together with detailed and painstaking case management within the complex network that surrounds the child, is vital in determining how well the child eventually settles in the adoptive home. The author describes her work with Sammy and Harry during the transition from foster-parents to adoptive parents. She also discusses the theoretical background of attachment, separation and loss in relation to children in care, and how this helps in understanding some of their very disturbed and aggressive behaviour. Many authors have suggested that it is extremely difficult to mourn one relationship whilst trying to attach within another.
