Open Vs. Closed Adoption: Which One Is Right For Us?

When prospective parents start researching and learning more about the adoption process, they tend to stumble across words and terms that might be foreign to them, perhaps even confusing. The two common terms parents tend to find are open and closed adoption. In order to make an informed decision, it is important for prospective parents to know the differences between the two terms. Open adoption is the adoption method where adoptive families and biological parents have some form of information or interaction with each other. The type of contact between the two parties generally varies depending on how “open” the adoption is made.

Some adoptive parents feel it is important for their child to understand their roots and background, as well as to keep some level of contact with their birth mother. Adoptive parents might also feel that having more adult figures in the child’s life will be good for them and will help them grow as an individual.

Closed adoption, on the other hand, happens when personal information regarding biological parents is sealed and inaccessible for the adopting family or the adopted child. With closed adoptions, both the biological parents and the adoptee will have a very difficult time trying to locate each other. This search, however, is not impossible. Families who want a closed adoption want to ensure that the child no longer has any real ties to the birth mother. Some families are afraid that the birth mother will try to interfere with the family and raise the child as well, or will perhaps garner second thoughts down the road and ultimately change their mind about the adoption once the new family is already close. Other families just do not want biological families involved in their child’s life or do not want to make things difficult for their child by having two sets of parents.

Both types of adoption come with benefits and disadvantages, and it is up to the prospective parents to discuss with each other which adoption is right for their family and their child. Knowing which types of adoptions are out there will empower parents to make the right decision when it comes to growing their family. To learn more about adoption types, visit an adoption agency to speak with an adoption specialist. About Action Adoption at Providence Place: Adopting a child is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Are you contemplating adoption, or are you already planning to adopt a child? Do you have any

idea about how or where to start? Action Adoption at Providence Place of San Antonio, Texas will guide you through the adoption process while making sure all your questions are answered. Contact them today to learn more about adoption and ways to get involved with our organization.