i have often thought about working in that field. it takes a lot of strength. i am sure from some of the horror stories that make the news and stories i have heard from other people that you would have to be able to disconnect and go home. if your empathy was too strong you would never be able to stand it. but at the same time, it is definatly a field where empathy is required. i have taken in several teenagers at different times who need love and a safe place to live, never officiallty a foster mom though. i would try fostering first, to get a taste of wether you can deal with the emotions.