According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, researchers have found that over one-third of Americans have considered adopting a child. Despite this large percentage, only approximately 2% of Americans are adoptive parents according to the fact sheet published in 2005. Why is there such a large discrepancy between the number of people who say they would like to adopt and those who are actually successful in becoming adoptive parents?
Life experience is a major factor that affects one’s perspective on adoption, but perhaps the underlying reluctance of people choosing adoption is they do not feel prepared for the role. Recognizing that adoption parenting has unique challenges is the first step in knowing when one is ready to adopt.
Questions to Ask Before Beginning Adoption Process
For many people who have experienced infertility or have been thinking about adopting a child for a long time, adoption seems to be a straightforward option. However, when faced with the decision of adoption as the chosen way to build a family, people need to give serious thought to the long term needs of the child they hope to adopt, as well as themselves. In a video where Barker Foundation Executive Director Marilyn Regier is interviewed, people considering adoption are asked to consider these questions:
- Am I joyful and excited about the adoption process?
- Have I dealt with my issues around infertility?
- Am I willing to set aside the fertility process for the time-being?
- Do I have an understanding of differences between biological and adoptive parenting?
- Am I prepared for the financial aspect of the adoption process?
- Are both myself and my partner on the same page regarding adoption?
- Do I envision myself being able to talk with my child about adoption over the years?
- I am comfortable knowing that the child has biological family members in the world, regardless of me never meeting them?
- Do I understand that adoption is a lifelong process and not a one-time legal event?
In answering these questions, people get a clearer picture of where they are in their decision around choosing adoption. It is unrealistic, however, to have honest answers for all of these factors without reading about and discussing adoption with professionals working in the field.
Resources for Researching Adoption
In both Canada and the U.S. there are various resources readily accessible on the topic of adoption. Whether it is academically researched studies on the impact of adoption for families or the blog of a waiting adoptive parent, information and insight is invaluable to people considering adoption. Here are some resources that contain up-to-date information for people interested in adoption.
- Canada Adopts!
- North American Council on Adoptable Children
- Family Helper
- Adoption Council of Canada
- Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute
- PACT Adoption Alliance
Adoptive Families magazine has also created an annual Adoption Guide that is free on-line or can be purchased as a print copy. Catering to American adopters, the guide offers information that is current and is a great resource for anyone thinking about adoption.
When considering adoption as an option for creating a family, it is crucial to look beyond wanting a child and picture what life as an adoptive family means. By asking questions, researching and having the support of an adoption practitioner through the homestudy process, future adopters will be prepared for life as an adoptive family.
Sources:
Canada Adopts! Website (accessed February 2, 2011).
Child Welfare Information Gateway Website. Persons Seeking to Adopt. 2005 (accessed February 2, 2011).
Angela Krueger - As an adoptive parent and PRIDE adoption trainer, Angela uses her insights to help others on their adoption journey.
