Is Open or Closed Adoption Right for You?
Reviewed and approved by Kathryn Wayne-Spindler
Adoption is a life-changing decision for both the birth parents and adoptive parents. One of the most critical decisions both parties must make is whether to have an open or closed adoption. An open adoption allows birth parents to maintain contact with their child and adoptive parents. In contrast, a closed adoption means no connection between the birth parents and the adoptive family after they finalize the adoption.
Popularity Factor
Open adoption is becoming more popular because of its benefits to everyone involved in the adoption process. In an open adoption, birth parents can have an ongoing relationship with their child and the adoptive family. This relationship can range from occasional visits to regular phone calls, emails, and social media communication. This type of adoption allows the birth parents to stay connected to their children and watch them grow up, which can help them feel more at peace with their decision to place their children for adoption.
Open Adoption
Open adoption also benefits adoptive families by providing more information about their child’s background and medical history. They can also have a relationship with the birth parents, which can help the child understand their adoption story better. Adoptive families may feel more secure knowing that they are involving their child’s birth parents and are not likely to try and disrupt the adoption.
Closed Adoption
A closed adoption means no contact between the birth parents and the adoptive family after they finalize the adoption. The birth parents’ information is kept confidential in a closed adoption. The adoptive family may not have access to the child’s medical history or background information. This lack of data can challenge adoptive families and children, especially if they want to learn more about their family history or medical background.
However, closed adoption may be the best option in some situations. A closed adoption may be the best option if the birth parents feel they cannot maintain a relationship with the child or adoptive family. It may also be beneficial if the birth parents want to move on and start a new chapter in their life without any reminders of the child they placed for adoption.
The decision to have an open or closed adoption is personal and should be made after careful consideration. Open adoption can benefit everyone involved in the adoption process, but it is not always the right choice. Ultimately, the most important thing is to find an adoption plan that is in the child’s best interest, allowing them to thrive.
