Adoption-Informed Care: What Clinicians in the United States Need to Know

Abstract

Given the prevalence of adoption in the United States, adoptive families need clinicians to be informed and aware of the unique experiences and needs of adoptive families. This study adds to our knowledge of adoption through examining the stories of adoptive parents to gain a deeper understanding of the facilitators and barriers to effective parenting, building attachment, and maintaining post-permanency continuity for their families. Results highlight specific areas that practitioners working with adoptive families should pay close attention to including (a) family systems related issues, (b) attachment and trauma related factors, and (c) grief and loss.