Around Half of All Adopted Children Eventually Search for Birth Parents

 Posted on August 23, 2016 in Family Law

Children are placed for adoption in a variety of ways, under an array of circumstances, and for a wide range of reasons. Most grow up to be happy, well-adjusted adults. That does not necessarily quell their curiosity, however. In fact, a large percentage of adopted children want to know where they came from, why they were placed for adoption, or what life might have been like, had things worked out differently. Around half end up searching for answers to those questions.

What Adopting Parents Should Know

According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, around half of all adopted children eventually search for their birth parents. Some are simply looking for health-related information, but others are looking to satisfy their curiosity and to ask questions surrounding the nature of their adoption. However, not every adopted adult searching for answers finds what they are looking for. In fact, many come to a dead end. In some cases, it is because the birth parent signed a no-contact veto, which legally keeps most of their information private. However, in many cases, it is simply because the agency did not collect enough information to effectively track down a birth parent.

Times are Changing

While some birth parents still sign no-contact vetoes to keep their information private, open adoptions are becoming increasingly common. In these types of adoption, the birth parent (or parents) remain a part of the child’s life. Some receive photographs and letters. Others have regular visits, such as on birthdays or holidays. There are even some that have regular and consistent visitations, which are generally agreed upon during the adoption process.

Experts say that this trend is fueled by a number of factors, including the decrease in available infants (which can give birth mothers more say in the adoption process) and the reduced stigma surrounding unmarried pregnancy. Many also say that this trend will not only continue, but may actually grow in popularity. This gives adopting parents a lot to consider.

What Sort of Adoption is Right for Your Family?

Growing your family through adoption is a wonderful and beautiful decision. However, it can also be a complex, confusing, and stressful process that is filled with uncertainty. Add in deciding if and when a birth parent should be allowed to contact or visit the child can add yet another layer of complexity, and a lot of various scenarios that are difficult to fully predict. Some birth parents do well with close contact, but others could put the child in harm’s way. An experienced family law attorney can help provide guidance, direction, and assistance.

At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we are dedicated to helping your family successfully navigate the adoption process. Backed by more than 200 years of experience, we have the skills, knowledge, and resources to efficiently handle your case in a timely and compassionate manner. To ask how we can help with your adoption, schedule a free consultation with DuPage County family law attorneys. Call 630-932-9100 today.