ADOPTION MYTHS AND REALITIES

“Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth.” Adoption Myths and Realities Myth Foster care adoption may cost less than private infant or international adoption, but it's still expensive. Reality The truth is that foster care adoption is not expensive, and there is financial support available for parents. Myth A biological parent can come to take an adopted child back. Reality This is a fear for two-thirds of the people considering adoption. However, biological parents have no way to gain back custody of the child or children once their parental rights are terminated. Myth 45% of Americans believe children in foster care have entered the system because of juvenile delinquency. Reality Children enter U.S. foster care through no fault of their own. Usually, they are victims of neglect, abandonment, or abuse. Children waiting to be adopted may be older but they are no less deserving of permanent families. Myth A single parent can't provide a healthy environment for an adopted child. Reality In fact, as the number of two-parent families decline, an increasing number of children live in single-parent homes. Recently, the number of single parents adopting jumped up to 31%. (Source: Adoptive Families magazine). Myth Same-sex parents are not capable of providing a healthy environment for an adoptive child. Reality Practically every valid study to date concludes children of same-sex parents adjust well and grow up in positive environments compared with heterosexual families. Myth No person over 55 can provide a healthy and loving environment for an adopted child. Reality This belief is held by 63% of Americans. In truth, almost one in four adopted children lives happily with an adoptive parent 55 years or older. Myth In order to adopt, you must be a “perfect” candidate and make a lot of money. Reality Children living in the foster care system are not in good conditions. An honest, loving family that can support them is better than the current situation of these children. Forever families come in all shapes and sizes. Statistics are from the National Foster Care Adoption Attitudes Survey, commissioned by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and conducted by Harris Interactive, November 2007 RESOURCES Adopt US Kids – Adoption Myths If you have any additional questions feel free to contact me any time! Linzy Munger A Family For Every Child Associate Director (541)343-2856 www.afamilyforeverychild.org