(1) The family is the basic institution in society in which our children's sense of self-esteem and positive self-image are developed and nurtured. These feelings and values are essential to a healthy, productive and independent life during adulthood.

(2) Dependent children are separated from their families through out-of-home placement in foster care or group home programs.

(3) Such out-of-home placement deprives children of the unique bond which exists in the parent-child relationship, leaving emotional scars on such children which may never fully heal.

(4) Despite the best efforts of county children and youth agencies to select appropriate foster care families, and despite the deep commitment to these children given by many foster parents, children are better off emotionally when their needs can be met by their biological parents.

(5) The average length of stay in foster care in Pennsylvania is three and one-half years at an average cost of $19,250 per child.

(1) The unique bond which exists between parent and child must be recognized as fundamental to the growth and development of children.

(2) The treatment of neglected and abused children must include a commitment to strengthening the families of these children through the intensive application of social services and family therapy.