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Adoption Myths and Misconceptions

Adoption Myths and Misconceptions

Adoption. The word “adoption” can be associated with many different emotions as well as
stereotypes and sometimes even horror stories. These inaccurate speculations cause many
families to stray away from growing their family through adoption. Below are five common myths
about adoption that we have debunked for you:
Birth parents are always teen moms
Statistics show that most birth parents are in their 20’s and 30’s and are already parenting other
children. They often chose adoption because they are struggling in different areas of life and
can be a single parent who wants a better life for their child. Typically, they want to play an
active role in the child’s adoption plan including choosing the adoptive parents and having
ongoing contact.
A birth parent can take their child back even after the adoption is completed
In the state of Illinois, birth parents must wait a minimum of seventy-two hours after the baby is
born before they can legally surrender their parental rights. Once the legal forms have been
completed, birth parents cannot take the baby back or revoke their decision. After finalization by
a judge, about six months later, the adoption placement is permanent and the adoptive parents
have all of the legal rights to the child.
Open adoption means co-parenting with the biological parents
Today, the majority of adoptions are open. This means there is some level of communication
between the adoptive family and birth parent(s). The type and frequency of the communication
is determined by the adoptive family and birth parent(s). The communication between both
parties is not a gateway for co-parenting. The adoptive family is the legal guardian of the child
and makes all decisions regarding the child’s life. Having open communication is beneficial
to a child’s overall well-being.
Adoption agencies have a waiting list, and it takes years to adopt
Every agency is different. Currently, our agency does not have a waitlist to begin the adoption/
home study process. Potential adoptive families create profile books for the potential birth parent(s)
to view. When a potential birth parent(s) chooses an adoptive family, they can connect with
each other through a third party, like Hopeful Beginnings. Since the potential birth parent(s) are
given the opportunity to pick the family they place their child with, the time hopeful adoptive
parents wait depend on their individual case.
Adopting transracially is too complicated
Transracial adoptions can certainly pose unique challenges, but being a family is simple. You
may have to learn about caring for different types of hair and skin after adopting a child of a
different racial background. It is also equally important to provide your child with role models
from their own racial/cultural background. However, this is an opportunity for you to learn about
your child’s heritage and incorporate their heritage into your family as well. The physical
differences between you and your child may be apparent, but insignificant compared to the love
you will have for your child.

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