As you begin researching adoption, there are several adoption myths you may find online. Don’t let these take away from your excitement or discourage you from certain aspects of parenting! At St Elizabeth Foundation, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of the adoption process. Let us demystify some of these adoption myths for you.
Myth 1: Most Adoptions Are Closed
Contrary to popular belief, most adoptions are not closed. Due to media portrayals, many people think that closed adoptions are the norm. However, closed adoptions only account for 5% of modern adoptions. The majority are either open or semi-open.
In an open adoption, birth parents can have direct contact with the adoptive family through letters, phone calls, emails, or in-person visits. Semi-open adoptions involve mediated communication facilitated by agencies like St. Elizabeth Foundation.
If you prefer a closed adoption, that’s entirely your choice. We strongly encourage open adoptions when it is in the best interest of all members of the adoption triad. Our counselors can provide detailed insights into each option, helping you decide what’s best for you and your child.
Myth 2: Open Adoptions Are Too Vulnerable
Open adoption is one in which the birth mother or parents keep close communication with the adoptive family. This may include writing letters or emails to their child, sending texts, making phone calls, or having in-person visits.
For the adopting family, this can appear on the surface to be an area of vulnerability. Remember that both the birth parents and adoptive parents can play essential roles in the child’s development.
Both parties can work together to provide the child with the best, most nurturing upbringing possible. Our caring team at St. Elizabeth Foundation can help you understand and navigate open adoption after your placement finalization.
Myth 3: I Should Wait to Tell My Child They’re Adopted
Many adoptive parents worry about when and how to tell their child about their adoption, fearing it might cause confusion or tension. However, being open from the start can benefit the child’s development. Sharing this information early on often fosters a healthy relationship between the child, birth parents, and adoptive parents.
At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we specialize in open adoptions and can help build strong connections between birth mothers and adoptive families. Don’t worry about stepping through this process alone. We’re here to help!
Myth 4: Transracial Adoptions Are Too Complicated
Some parents are concerned about adopting outside of their race. However, transracial adoptions can be successful when the needs of the children are being met. It’s all about openly discussing and ensuring your child doesn’t feel isolated or uncared for. Avoiding race altogether can create several problems.
Examples of this include health and care needs. Take hair, for example. The care that needs to go into your child’s hair may differ exponentially from your own if they are of a different race, as there are differences in texture, moisture retention, and even color since some hair colors have their own needs. However, these needs can be met with proper dedication, which means learning how to care for your child properly.
Avoiding conversations about ethnicity can also make your child feel racially isolated, creating identity issues. Open discussions can help ease this feeling and make them feel more comfortable with themselves.
No matter the situation, every adoption has challenges. But with assistance from our agency, we can help you find the right path for you and your family. Don’t let unnecessary adoption myths ruin your mindset.
Brush Off the Adoption Myths & Start Your Journey
Don’t let these adoption myths stop you from exploring the beautiful path of adoption. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are here to provide you with accurate information and support every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about adoption, ask your questions, and find real answers to ease your worries. Call us at 225-769-8888 or send us a message to begin your adoption journey today.