Section 3: Open Adoption

Misperceptions

Adoptive Families Magazine

MYTH
Birthparents can show up at any time to reclaim their child.
REALITY Once an adoption is finalized, the adoptive family is recognized as the child's family by law. Despite the publicity surrounding a few high-profile cases, post-adoption revocations are extremely rare.

MYTH
Birthparents are all troubled teens.
REALITY Most birthparents today are over 18, but lack the resources to care for a child. It is generally with courage and love for their child that they terminate their parental rights.

MYTH
Adopted children are more likely to be troubled than birth children.
REALITY Research shows that adoptees are as well-adjusted as their non-adopted peers. There is virtually no difference in psychological functioning between them.

MYTH
Open adoption causes problems for children.
REALITY Adoptees are not confused by contact with their birthparents. They benefit from the increased understanding that their birthparents gave them life but their forever families take care of and nurture them.

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