Adoption
Adoption traditions may change over the years, but the custom is as old as society. Children need stable relationships, and adults desire children. In primitive societies, children were often orphaned, and relatives took the place of birth parents. That is still one reason for adoption today, but the formal acceptance of parental responsibility today is usually for other reasons.
Studies show that adopted children do well. Parents are often highly motivated to find a child. Adoption may be familial, local, or international. Children placed may have special needs, have been in foster care, or have been given to the social system that helps place children at birth.
Recently Answered
- Q How can I be age-appropriate when discussing my child's adoption?
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Dr. Michele Borba, PsychologyBe age appropriate by using words and language that your child suitable to your child’s age and ability to understand. Research at Rutgers University found that all kids develop a gradual meaning of adoption in these predictable stages and... Full Answer
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- Q Can an adoption agency guarantee the health of the child?
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Brooke Randolph, Marriage & Family TherapyNo. An adoption agency is often dependent on information reported to them and the accuracy of those reports and sources. Full Answer
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- Q How does being adopted affect a child?
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Dr. Michele Borba, PsychologyAdopted kids turn out just fine, according to one of the largest studies ever conducted on adoption. It was conducted by the Search Institute and is called Growing Up Adopted. The study included over 880 adolescents who were adopted as infants.... Full Answer
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- Q Why should I go for international adoption instead of domestic adoption?
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Brooke Randolph, Marriage & Family TherapyAnother reason that some choose international adoption over domestic adoption is the long term outlook for the children. While many believe it is not enough, the US government does provide care, services, and resources to children considered wards of the... Full Answer
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- Q How do I reassure my adopted child that I'm not going to abandon her?
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Dr. Michele Borba, PsychologyThe central fear of adopted children is that they will be “given up” again. Your child needs assurance -- both now and forever -- that your relationship is permanent. “Yep, my parents are stuck with me forever” is a fine... Full Answer
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- Q How can I help my child feel comfortable about being adopted?
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Dr. Michele Borba, PsychologyPeter L. Benson, lead researcher of one of the largest studies on adoptees says that, “Quiet, open communication about adoption seems to be the key” to helping kids thrive and take their adoption in stride. Your child needs to know he... Full Answer
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- Q How much should I tell my child about his adoption?
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Dr. Michele Borba, PsychologyWhile you should be honest, only give your child the information he needs to know at the time he asks. Too much information is overwhelming for a child. Remember, this is an ongoing conversation instead of a one-time marathon. Keep in mind that... Full Answer
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- Q How should my child respond when kids ask him about his adoption?
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Dr. Michele Borba, PsychologyLet’s face it, kids (and adults!) can be cruel. One of the best things parents can do is arm adopted kids with the right vocabulary or a couple great comeback lines, so they’re ready for those guaranteed insensitive peer queries. The... Full Answer
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- Q What different methods of adoption are available?
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The following are the types of adoption methods available: In a kinship or relative adoption, a child is placed with a relative. These are by far the most common kind of adoptions. A public adoption involves the placement of a child with adoptive... Full Answer
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- Q When should I tell my child that she is adopted?
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Dr. Michele Borba, PsychologyBegin using the term "adoption" during your child's early toddler and preschool years to help you feel at ease. Just look for natural ways to bring up the topic such as a friend who is pregnant, a book, or a program on television or movie about... Full Answer
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